The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has made a bold statement, declaring that he will resign if he does not personally oversee the completion of the investigation into former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello. This move demonstrates the EFCC’s commitment to holding public officials accountable for their actions.
Olukoyede revealed that he had extended an invitation to Bello to appear before the commission to address the charges against him, but the former governor declined. The EFCC is seeking to arraign Bello on 19 counts of alleged money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of funds totaling N80.2 billion. These charges are a result of a thorough investigation into Bello’s financial dealings during his tenure as governor.
Despite Bello’s absence, the EFCC served a copy of the charge sheet to his lawyer, Abdulwahab Mohamed SAN, after obtaining a court order. Justice Emeka Nwite directed Bello’s lawyer to accept the service of the charge on behalf of the defendant, citing section 384 (4 and 5) of the Administrative and Criminal Justice Act 2015. This move ensures that Bello is officially aware of the charges against him and is required to appear in court to face trial.
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Bello’s legal team claims he is afraid of a lack of fair hearing and justice, but the EFCC argues that Bello is evading justice and should not be allowed to file applications while in hiding. The EFCC has declared Bello wanted for his persistent absence in court and evasion of criminal charges. This declaration highlights the seriousness of the charges against Bello and the EFCC’s determination to bring him to justice.
The case is ongoing, with the EFCC determined to prosecute Bello to a logical conclusion and bring to book all those who obstructed his arrest. Olukoyede reiterated the EFCC’s commitment to sanitizing the country, despite any attacks or obstacles. This statement demonstrates the EFCC’s resolve to fight corruption and ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions.
The EFCC’s investigation into Bello’s financial dealings is a significant step towards tackling corruption in Nigeria. The agency’s determination to bring Bello to justice, despite his attempts to evade trial, demonstrates its commitment to upholding the law and ensuring that public officials are held accountable for their actions. As the case continues, Nigerians will be watching closely to see if the EFCC will succeed in bringing Bello to justice.