Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, has clarified the challenges security agencies face in arresting former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, who is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged financial misappropriations totaling N80.2 billion.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Inside Sources, Onanuga explained, “The situation is complicated. Bello is taking cover under the immunity of the current Kogi State Governor, his successor, which prevents law enforcement from intervening at the governor’s residence.”
This immunity, he noted, makes it difficult for the EFCC to carry out the arrest, as police actions are restricted within the governor’s official residence.
Since the EFCC issued a warrant for Bello’s arrest in April, several attempts have been blocked by the current governor, Usman Ododo, who has reportedly stepped in to shield Bello from detention.
“If he remains in Governor Ododo’s residence, the police are powerless to act without breaching immunity,” Onanuga commented.
He likened the situation to an international case involving WikiLeaks’ founder, saying, “It’s similar to diplomatic immunity; it restricts law enforcement action.”
As Bello continues to evade court appearances despite repeated hearings, the EFCC and police face a legal stalemate in enforcing the warrant.
