Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi state, turned himself in to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday, September 18.
The EFCC issued a wanted list for the former governor due to allegations of fraud and illicit enrichment during his tenure in government.
Ohiare Michael, the director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, stated in a statement issued today, September 18, that he decided to give himself in after consulting with his family, legal counsel, and political friends.
“The former Governor, who has great respect for the rule of law and constituted authority, had, all the while, only sought the enforcement of his fundamental rights in order to ensure due process. The case has been before a competent court of jurisdiction, and Alhaji Yahaya Bello had been duly represented by his legal team at every hearing. It is important for the former Governor to now honour the invitation of the EFCC to clear his name as he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear.
“The former Governor believes firmly in the efforts of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to place Nigeria on the path of sustainable economic development; and supports the fight against corruption in the country.
“It is on record that he was the first Governor of Kogi State to put in place an anti-corruption mechanism to check graft and ensure that the resources of the State work for the people of the State.
“He was accompanied to the EFCC Headquarters by high profile Nigerians.
“It is our hope that the Commission will be as professional as necessary and respect his fundamental rights as a citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Details of his engagement with the operatives of the Anti-Graft Agency will be disclosed later.”
You may remember that the EFCC sued Bello on 19 counts of allegedly laundering N80 billion in money. But Bello has persistently skipped court proceedings and refused to accept the EFCC’s requests to be questioned.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.