The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, wanted for alleged economic and financial crimes totaling N80.2 billion.
According to an official bulletin released on Thursday, the EFCC called upon individuals with information regarding Bello’s whereabouts to come forward and report to the Commission or the nearest police station.
This announcement coincides with an ongoing legal battle unfolding in the Federal High Court in Abuja. The court adjourned the case against Bello to April 23 after his absence on Thursday disrupted the planned arraignment.
Expressing frustration at Bello’s absence, the EFCC’s counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, highlighted allegations of protection by someone with immunity, who purportedly facilitated his escape in an official vehicle to evade arrest.
Despite assertions from Bello’s legal team, citing an ex parte order from a High Court restraining the EFCC from arresting and prosecuting him, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja gave EFCC the permission to apprehend him.
This ruling came after the agency pursued a warrant of arrest against Bello, which was lawfully obtained.
In a statement issued by its Head of Media & Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC announced plans to arraign Bello before Justice Emeka Nwite on charges including money laundering amounting to N80,246,470,088.88.
These charges involve allegations of converting funds that reasonably ought to have been known as proceeds of unlawful activity, constituting a breach of trust.
Despite facing resistance in executing the warrant of arrest, the EFCC remains resolute in its pursuit of justice, affirming that Bello is not exempt from the law and will be swiftly brought to justice.
