The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced that former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello is not in its custody.
The EFCC in a statement signed by its spokesman, Dele Oyewale debunked an earlier report on Wednesday that Bello had honoured its invitation.
“Media reports today that a former Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello is in the holding facility of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is incorrect. The Commission wishes to state that Bello is not in its custody,” Oyewale said.
“Bello already declared wanted by the commission for alleged N80.2billion money laundering charges remains wanted with a subsisting warrant for his arrest.”
Director, Yahaya Bello Media Office, Ohiare Michael had disclosed on Wednesday morning in a statement on X that the former Kogi State Governor had honoured the invitation of the EFCC.
Michael said the decision to honour the invitation was made after due consultations with his family, legal team and political allies.
“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,” Michael said.
“The case has been before a competent court of jurisdiction and Alhaji 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.”
Michael said the former governor believes firmly in the efforts of the administration of President Bola Tinubu to place Nigeria on the path of sustainable economic development.
He further said that Bello has always supported the fight against corruption in the country.
Michael said 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.
He also said that Bello 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,” Michael said.
