Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) raided the Kogi Government Lodge in Asokoro on Wednesday night in an attempt to forcefully arrest former Governor Yahaya Bello.
This was disclosed in a statement by Bello’s Director of Media, Ohiare Michael, who claimed that the EFCC operatives were firing shots sporadically. Condemning the raid, Michael urged Nigerians to hold the EFCC accountable if anything happens to Bello.
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Bello voluntarily visited the EFCC office earlier today, but the commission asked him to leave and return at a later date.
The statement says: “We have been informed that individuals believed to be operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission are currently at the Kogi Government Lodge, Asokoro, attempting to forcibly arrest former Governor Yahaya Bello. They were firing shots sporadically.
“We want to make it clear that the EFCC should be held responsible if anything happens to him.
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“Tonight’s incident was unnecessary, as the former governor had already presented himself to the EFCC for questioning earlier. The EFCC had no questions for Alh. Yahaya Bello in the morning, yet they are now attempting to arrest him.
“This action is unacceptable and showcases why many Nigerians think the EFCC is pursuing political agendas rather than fighting corruption. This appears to be more than just an anti-corruption effort. We will keep Nigerians updated.
EFCC rejected Yahaya Bello’s visit due to a breach of protocol. When Bello arrived with a convoy, the governor, and other dignitaries, the EFCC Chairman ordered that he not be attended to.
The EFCC stated that no one, regardless of status, should arrive with such grandeur. Bello skipped documentation steps by bringing the governor, who has immunity and wasn’t invited by the EFCC. The commission emphasized the need for due process, stating that Bello should have come with his lawyer, not a governor or other Politically Exposed Persons.
The EFCC also disapproved of the media propaganda suggesting Bello was already in custody, according to a source.
Credit: Kemifilaninews
