The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a final ultimatum to former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, directing him to appear in court on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, to defend himself against charges of N80.2 billion money laundering.
An insider source revealed that the EFCC had rejected Bello’s recent attempt to surrender himself, citing concerns that his actions were aimed at disrupting the Commission’s investigation and operational procedures.
The EFCC maintained that the former governor faces a 19-count charge of money laundering, which he allegedly tried to circumvent through his surrender bid.
“The EFCC is a highly professional agency with strict guidelines regarding the arrest, bail, and surrender of wanted suspects. Bello presented himself as an emperor in an environment where he is a suspect,” the source noted.
According to the EFCC, Bello’s attempt to surrender raised suspicions, as intelligence suggested his motives were not genuine. The Commission emphasized that its actions, led by Chairman Ola Olukoyede, were necessary to ensure that the integrity of the investigation was maintained.
Bello, who reportedly communicated with some EFCC officers before his arrival at the Commission’s premises, was accused of trying to manipulate the process. The EFCC, however, clarified that his only remaining option is to appear in court to face the charges.
The case against Bello stems from allegations that during his tenure as governor, he laundered N80.2 billion, and any further delays in the case could aggravate his situation, the agency warned.
