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American International School of Abuja Seeks to Refund $760,000 in School Fees Paid by Yahaya Bello’s Children
The American International School of Abuja (AISA) has taken a significant step in cooperating with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) by requesting to refund $760,910 in school fees paid by the children of Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State. This move comes as part of the EFCC’s ongoing investigation into alleged money laundering activities by the Bello family.
In a letter addressed to the Lagos zonal commander of the EFCC, AISA provided detailed information about the payments made by the Bello family. According to the letter, a total of $845,852 has been paid in tuition and fees since September 7, 2021, covering the educational expenses of Bello’s children, who are in grade levels 2-8. After deducting the educational services already rendered, AISA calculated the refund amount to be $760,910.
The school requested an official written request with authentic banking details from the EFCC to facilitate the refund. AISA emphasized that no further fees are expected for tuition, as the students’ fees have been settled until graduation. Additionally, the school stated that it will draw the attention of the EFCC if there are any further deposits made by the Bello family.
According to AISA, Ali Bello, the former governor’s son, contacted the school on August 13, 2021, to pay the family’s school fees in advance until the students graduate from high school. This payment was made in violation of Nigeria’s money laundering laws, which the EFCC is investigating.
The EFCC has been investigating Yahaya Bello for alleged fraud, and the commission has declared him wanted, with the Nigeria Immigration Service placing him on a watchlist. On April 17, EFCC operatives attempted to arrest Bello at his Abuja residence, but he was reportedly whisked away by Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo.
The Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, revealed that Yahaya Bello transferred $720,000 from the Kogi State government’s coffers to a bureau de change before leaving office to pay his child’s school fees in advance. This transfer is a subject of investigation, and the EFCC is working to unravel the circumstances surrounding the payment.
By seeking to refund the school fees, AISA is demonstrating its commitment to transparency and cooperation with the EFCC’s investigation. The school’s actions may set a precedent for other institutions and individuals to follow in supporting the fight against money laundering and corruption in Nigeria.