According to sources, Yahaya Bello subsequently left the lodge in the company of his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, amidst uncertainty over his current whereabouts.
In a dramatic turn of events, operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) engaged in a gun battle with security personnel at the Kogi State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, on Wednesday night in an attempt to arrest former Governor Yahaya Bello.
The EFCC had earlier declared Bello wanted for allegedly laundering N80.2 billion, and had filed a 19-count charge against him. However, when the anti-graft agency’s operatives arrived at the lodge to effect his arrest, they were met with resistance from security personnel, leading to a standoff.
According to sources, Yahaya Bello subsequently left the lodge in the company of his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, amidst uncertainty over his current whereabouts.
The EFCC’s move was condemned by Bello’s media office, which described it as “Gestapo-like” and unnecessary. The office stated that Bello had voluntarily reported to the EFCC headquarters earlier in the day, accompanied by Ododo, but was asked to leave and return later.
“This action is condemnable,” said Ohiare Michael, Director of Bello’s media office. “The EFCC should be held accountable if anything untoward happens to him.”
The statement also highlighted that the commission had no questions to ask Bello during their earlier meeting at the headquarters, but suddenly decided to arrest him. The media office believes that the EFCC’s actions reflect more than just a fight against corruption, and that they are waging a political battle instead.
The EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, could not be reached for comments at the time of filing this report.
The incident has sparked concerns about the safety of Bello and the motives behind the EFCC’s actions. The situation remains unclear, with many Nigerians watching with bated breath as developments unfold.
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