Officials from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) attempted to apprehend former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello on Wednesday night at the Kogi State Governor’s lodge in Asokoro, Federal Capital Territory. However, there was resistance from security personnel at the lodge, leading to gunfire during the confrontation.
The area has since been secured, with access restricted to EFCC officials and other security agencies present. Unconfirmed reports indicate that the former governor has since left the lodge with the current Kogi State governor, Ahmed Ododo.
Normalcy appears to have returned to the vicinity after the attempted arrest of Bello, who has been sought by the EFCC for allegedly laundering ₦80.2 billion. Following months of being declared wanted, a statement from Yahaya Bello’s media office, issued by Ohiare Michael, stated that the former governor responded to an EFCC invitation “after consulting with his family, legal team, and political allies.”
In contrast, the EFCC quickly refuted this claim, stating that Bello is not in their custody and remains on their wanted list. According to the media office, both Bello and his successor, Usman Ododo, were present at the EFCC office on September 18, 2024.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale clarified that reports claiming the former governor was in their custody were incorrect, reaffirming that Bello is still wanted under a warrant for alleged money laundering involving ₦80.2 billion.
Following this, Ohiare Michael issued another statement confirming that Bello answered the EFCC’s invitation but was allowed to leave without being interrogated. He emphasized Bello’s respect for the rule of law and his desire for due process.
The EFCC has charged Bello with 19 counts of alleged money laundering amounting to ₦80 billion. Despite this, he has often declined to respond to invitations for questioning and has repeatedly skipped court appearances. His case is currently adjourned until September 25 by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
