The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has refuted claims that former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, is in its custody.
The anti-graft agency stated that Bello, declared wanted for alleged N80.2 billion money laundering charges, remains at large with a subsisting arrest warrant.
In a statement on Wednesday, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale clarified, “Media reports today that Mr. Yahaya Bello is in the holding facility of the EFCC are incorrect. Bello is not in our custody and remains wanted.”
However, The Director of Bello’s Media Office, Oiare Michael reported that Bello attended the EFCC headquarters after consultations with his legal team and political associates but was allowed to leave without interrogation.
“Former Governor Bello visited the EFCC today, accompanied by his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, but EFCC officials told him he could leave without questioning,” Michael said in a follow-up statement. “We are unsure of what this development signifies.”
Earlier in the day, the EFCC attempted to arrest Bello at the Kogi State Government Lodge in Abuja. Michael described the operation as an aggressive attempt by EFCC operatives to apprehend the ex-governor, with reports of gunfire during the incident.
Bello was declared wanted in April for allegedly laundering over N80 billion. Despite numerous court appearances and adjournments, he has yet to be arraigned. The Court of Appeal in Abuja recently ordered Bello to surrender himself for arraignment.
