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George Oshogwe Ogbolu
Guest
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is intensifying its investigation into several of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello’s ex aides, who served during his administration from 2016 to 2024.
Naija News reports that this is ahead of the October 24 adjournment for the court appearance of Yahaya Bello.
This move is aimed at bolstering the agency’s case against Bello, who is facing allegations of corruption and misappropriation of public funds throughout his tenure.
According to a PM News report, sources suggest that the probe could result in the arrest of former aides, some of whom now hold positions in the current administration. Their involvement is believed to have facilitated the alleged financial misconduct attributed to Bello while he was governor.
Attempts to reach EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale for comments on the agency’s strategy were unsuccessful. However, insiders claim that the EFCC has gathered a significant amount of evidence against Bello, far beyond what has been filed in the ongoing Federal Court case in Abuja.
The agency is reportedly eager to move forward with the case against Bello, who has successfully evaded arrest for several months.
Sources on Wednesday revealed that the EFCC has been cautious about advancing the case primarily because they have yet to bring Bello to court to commence a full trial.
An EFCC official remarked, “We have more evidence against Bello than many anticipate. He knows we possess information related to his alleged financial mismanagement during his governorship.”
The official also mentioned that Bello’s attempts to avoid arrest, relying on his successor, Governor Usman Ododo’s immunity, would only delay the inevitable.
“He will face justice; no one is above the law,” the official added.
Another senior EFCC official, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the case, indicated that new charges may be brought against Bello.
She hinted at significant revelations during the trial, noting, “Many of his supporters, including Civil Society Organizations and lawmakers in the Kogi State Assembly who have called for the removal of our chairman, might need to rethink their stance when the full details come to light.”
Bello is expected to respond to a public summons and a new 16-count charge on October 24, alongside two other defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu.
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