Yahaya Bello, the ex-Governor of Kogi State, has been granted a last opportunity to show up in court on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, to address accusations of money laundering amounting to N80.2 billion.
This development follows Bello’s nonappearance at prior court hearings planned for his indictment. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been actively pursuing Bello since April 17, 2024, when a warrant was issued for his apprehension.
Nevertheless, Bello’s evasiveness has caused several delays in the legal proceedings.
On April 17, 2024, EFCC officers made an effort to apprehend Bello at his Abuja residence, but their attempt was obstructed by policemen stationed at the location. With additional assistance from the Police and the Department of State Services (DSS), the officers intended to arrest Bello by force.
During the operation, Governor Usman Ododo, Bello’s replacement, showed up at the premises. Subsequently, Bello reportedly fled in his vehicle, leading security personnel to discharge their firearms.
A reliable source at the EFCC disclosed that Bello’s presence on Wednesday represents his sole chance and final moment to enter his plea concerning the 19-count accusations lodged against him.
The source stated, “The Commission is not perturbed about all his moves because charges have been drafted against him already, and his delay tactics about taking his plea could only worsen his case.”
Last week, the EFCC turned down Bello’s proposal to surrender as they suspected that he was trying to influence the commission’s operational protocols.
On September 18, Bello responded to the EFCC’s summons by presenting himself at the commission’s premises, accompanied by Governor Ahmed Ododo, his successor, and several prominent individuals.
This action was in connection to allegations of mishandling N80.2 billion, as per a statement from his media team.
“The EFCC is a highly professional agency with strict guidelines about arrest, bail, surrender of wanted suspects, investigation and prosecution.
“He (Bello) came carrying himself like an emperor in an environment where he is a suspect. Besides, the Commission reportedly stumbled on some intelligence regarding his motives for surrender, which could jeopardise his trial eventually.
“All these made the chairman, Ola Olukoyede to act swiftly and turned down his contrived surrender offer,” another source stated.
