Treat Yahaya Bello Like Any Arrested Criminal, Anti-Graft Federation Tells EFCC

The Federation of Anti-Graft Organisations has expressed elation that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has finally arrested former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.

After months of evading arrest, Bello, who served as Kogi State’s Governor from 2015 to 2023 was finally apprehended on Tuesday, 26th November 2024, over allegations of money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of N80.2 billion.

Saluting EFCC for nabbing Bello who has been on the commission’s WANTED list since April 2024, the anti-graft federation said the former Governor must be treated like any common criminal and have all his bank accounts frozen.

In a statement in Abuja on Tuesday, signed by its Convener, Comrade Kolawole Emmanuel, and Secretary, Chisom Obioha, the organisations issued a set of demands in response to the development.

According to the organisation, the EFCC should uphold the principles of justice, transparency, and accountability in the handling of the case.

The Federation of Anti-Graft Organisations’ demands include that:

1. No plea bargain should be entertained.
2. No administrative bail should be granted.
3. The Commission must vehemently oppose any bail application in court.
4. Alhaji Yahaya Bello should be treated like any other common criminal arrested by the agency.
5. EFCC should take his mug-shot and publish it for transparency.
6. He should be detained in solitary confinement to ensure accountability.
7. No presidential pardon should be considered under any circumstances.
8. All his accounts should be frozen to prevent further financial misconduct.
9. All his former aides who assisted in committing the alleged crimes should be arrested.
10. The prosecution process should be fair and professional to secure conviction without any interference.

It said: “We call for a thorough investigation and prosecution to serve as a deterrent to others who may engage in corrupt practices.

“If any attempt is made to release Yahaya Bello under any circumstances, we will hit the streets with massive protests against the EFCC and the Federal Government. We urge Nigerians to look forward to our World Press Conference to address the situation in a more holistic manner soon.”