Former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello has confirmed that he left the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) office in Abuja on Wednesday without undergoing any interrogation. Bello had reported to the EFCC to address allegations of an N80.2 billion fraud, following months of avoiding the agency’s summons.
The former governor’s visit to the EFCC marks the end of a protracted standoff between him and the anti-graft agency. Earlier, Bello had been declared wanted by the EFCC after repeatedly failing to respond to the Commission’s invitations and refusing to appear in court for arraignment over the alleged fraud.
Bello arrived at the EFCC headquarters in the company of his successor, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, stating that his intention was to clear his name and cooperate with the investigation.
However, in a statement issued by Ohiare Michael, head of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, it was revealed that the EFCC did not proceed with any interrogation. “Earlier today, we reported the voluntary visit of former Governor of Kogi State, HE Alh. Yahaya Bello to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission office to honour the Commission’s invitation. Despite his readiness to engage, the EFCC officials informed him he could leave without being questioned,” the statement read.
Michael added that the former governor has always expressed respect for the rule of law and emphasized that his actions were aimed at protecting his fundamental rights and ensuring due process. “We don’t know what this development signifies yet. As we speak, HE Alhaji Yahaya Bello has left the EFCC office, accompanied by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo,” the statement concluded.
At the time of publication, the EFCC had not responded to inquiries regarding Bello’s claims.
