Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has complied with an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), as confirmed by his media office on Wednesday.
In a statement signed by Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, it was revealed that Bello’s appearance before the anti-graft agency followed consultations with his family, legal team, and political associates. The statement was titled, *“Former Governor Yahaya Bello Honours EFCC’s Invitation.”*
Bello was reportedly accompanied to the EFCC headquarters by several high-profile Nigerians. His appearance is part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of financial misconduct during his tenure as Kogi State governor.
The former governor, along with three others, faces 19 charges related to money laundering involving a sum of N80.2 billion. However, the statement emphasized that Bello chose to engage with the EFCC to clear his name, asserting he has “nothing to hide and nothing to fear.”
It also noted that Bello had previously sought to protect his fundamental rights by ensuring that due process was followed in the investigation. “The case has been before a competent court, and Alhaji Yahaya Bello has been represented by his legal team at every hearing. It is now important for the former governor to honour the EFCC’s invitation to clear his name.”
The statement further expressed Bello’s support for the anti-corruption efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and his commitment to the fight against corruption in Nigeria.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale was unavailable for comment at the time of this report.
Earlier in April, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede had pledged to resign if Bello was not prosecuted, vowing to see the case through to its conclusion and to ensure that anyone obstructing the former governor’s arrest would face justice.
