EFCC begins fresh hunt as Yahaya Bello goes into hiding

EFCC begins fresh hunt as Yahaya Bello goes into hiding

The drama that unfolded on Wednesday between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and a former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, is yet to find a landing spot.

EFCC operatives surrounded the state government lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, where Bello was reportedly hiding, but failed to apprehend him.

Prior to the operation, Bello had claimed he was complying with the EFCC’s summons, asserting he had nothing to conceal.

However, sources indicate that he has since returned to the Kogi State Government House, where he had been hiding before his trip to Abuja.

After several hours of attempting to arrest him, EFCC officials expressed frustration at their inability to detain the former governor, suggesting that he is being protected by his successor, Governor Usman Ododo.

One anonymous source within the EFCC revealed, “If not for the current governor providing him cover, we would have executed the arrest. We are bound by the law and are cautious about the immunity enjoyed by Governor Ododo.”

The same strategies that allowed Bello to avoid capture previously were reportedly employed again.

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An insider from the Kogi government criticized the EFCC’s tactics, claiming that Bello was unfairly targeted despite his cooperation.

The EFCC had declared Bello wanted in April for allegedly evading multiple invitations related to investigations into a suspected N80.2 billion money laundering scheme.

Tensions escalated during a previous attempt to arrest him, which involved armed operatives and backup from police and security services.

Following that incident, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede reached out personally to Bello, offering to facilitate his interrogation at EFCC headquarters. However, Bello declined the offer, claiming concerns about potential media scrutiny.

On Wednesday morning, Bello’s media team issued a statement affirming his respect for legal processes, asserting his intention to clear his name. They emphasized that he has consistently cooperated with authorities.

In contrast, the EFCC promptly refuted claims that he was in their custody, reiterating his status as a wanted individual.

Internal discussions within the EFCC indicate that they are reevaluating their strategies to secure his arrest, though specific details remain undisclosed.

As this situation continues to develop, the EFCC appears determined to pursue its investigation into the former governor’s alleged financial misconduct.

 

EFCC begins fresh hunt as Yahaya Bello goes into hiding