By Karen James
Abuja, September 18, 2024, The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has refuted recent media reports suggesting that former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, is currently in its custody. In a statement released today, the EFCC clarified that the reports are inaccurate and that Bello remains at large.
Bello, who has been declared wanted by the Commission on charges of alleged money laundering amounting to N80.2 billion, is not being held by the EFCC, despite circulating rumors. The Commission reiterated that a warrant for his arrest is still in effect, and efforts to apprehend him continue.
The clarification came through a statement issued by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media & Publicity for the EFCC, and shared with Pechilly Media earlier today.
“Mr. Yahaya Bello is not in our custody, contrary to media reports. The former Governor remains wanted with a subsisting arrest warrant,” the statement read.
The EFCC initially declared Bello wanted earlier this year in connection with allegations of misappropriating public funds during his tenure as Governor. The charges, totaling N80.2 billion, involve complex money laundering schemes, according to sources within the anti-graft agency.
The EFCC has urged the public to disregard the false reports and assured that the search for Bello is ongoing. The Commission also warned that any attempt to mislead the public could obstruct justice.
As of now, there is no official update regarding the former governor’s whereabouts, though the EFCC maintains its determination to bring him to justice.
Yahaya Bello, who served as Governor of Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, has been embroiled in allegations of financial misconduct linked to his administration. The EFCC opened investigations into his finances following suspicions of large-scale embezzlement and money laundering, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant earlier this year.
The case has drawn significant public attention, given the scale of the alleged crimes and Bello’s political prominence.
The EFCC remains committed to apprehending the former governor and pursuing justice in line with Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
