Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has honored an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) according to a statement from his media office.
Bello’s decision to appear before the anti-graft agency comes after consultations with his family, legal team, and political associates.
The former governor has been in a running battle with the anti-graft agency over alleged financial impropriety while he was the number one citizen of Kogi. He and three others are facing 19 counts related to money laundering to the tune of N80.2 billion.
However, Bello maintains that he has “nothing to hide and nothing to fear.”
In a statement, he said, “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” ².
Bello also expressed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, noting the government’s efforts to ensure sustainable economic development and combat corruption in the country.
READ ALSO:Appeal Court orders Yahaya Bello to face trial for alleged N80bn fraud
The former governor was accompanied to the EFCC headquarters by several high-profile Nigerians. His media office expressed hope that the commission would respect his fundamental rights during their interactions.
Further details of Bello’s engagement with the EFCC are expected to be disclosed in the coming days.
Bello had earlier evaded arrest when EFCC operatives stormed his residence to pick him up. He was assisted by the incumbent governor, Usman Ododo, who whisked him away in his official vehicle with his full security detail in tow.
In April, the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, had vowed to resign if the embattled former governor is not prosecuted. Olukoyede swore to follow the prosecution of Mr. Bello to the logical conclusion.
He also vowed that all those who obstructed the arrest of the former governor would be brought to justice.
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