Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja over allegations of fraud involving N110 billion.
The arrest follows months of evasion and legal proceedings aimed at compelling Bello to face trial for charges of money laundering and misappropriation of public funds during his time in office.
The EFCC initially declared Bello wanted in April 2024 after he repeatedly ignored multiple invitations and arrest attempts. At the time, he was facing 19 charges of money laundering involving N80 billion. However, the charges were later amended to 16 counts, with the alleged amount increasing to over N110 billion. The anti-graft agency accused Bello and his co-defendants of using the laundered funds to acquire 12 properties in Abuja, raising concerns about the misuse of state resources for personal gain.
Despite the gravity of the allegations, Bello managed to avoid arraignment for several months, defying court orders and summonses. Notably, the Court of Appeal had previously directed him to surrender himself for trial, but the former governor remained at large. Reports suggest that his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, played a role in shielding Bello from arrest. In April, Ododo allegedly facilitated Bello’s escape during an EFCC operation at a location where the former governor was expected to be apprehended.
In September 2024, Bello made a surprising visit to the EFCC headquarters in what many assumed was a step toward addressing the allegations against him. However, he left without undergoing interrogation, leaving the EFCC no choice but to maintain his status as a wanted person. Following this, Justice Maryanne Anenih of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory issued a public summons ordering Bello to appear in court to face a fresh 16-count charge of criminal breach of trust and other related offenses.
Despite the legal mandate, Bello failed to comply with the court order. His non-compliance prompted EFCC operatives to intensify efforts to apprehend him, leading to his eventual arrest on Tuesday, November 26, at around 12:59 pm. Sources within the EFCC revealed that Bello was interrogated for several hours following his arrest and remains in custody pending his arraignment.
A senior EFCC official confirmed that Bello is expected to appear before the Federal Capital Territory High Court on Wednesday, November 27, to face the charges against him. “Having evaded proceedings since the commencement of his trial, his arrest has finally presented us with the opportunity to bring him before the court. I can assure you that he will have his day in court today,” the official stated.
Bello’s arrest has sparked significant public interest, with many viewing it as a critical step in the fight against corruption in Nigeria. The case highlights the persistent challenges faced by anti-graft agencies in holding high-profile political figures accountable, particularly those with access to state resources and influence.
The EFCC’s efforts to prosecute Bello come amid growing concerns about corruption in Nigeria’s public sector. Allegations of large-scale embezzlement, such as the one involving Bello, underscore the need for stronger mechanisms to ensure transparency and accountability in governance.
As Bello prepares to face the court, the outcome of his arraignment is expected to set the tone for subsequent proceedings. Legal analysts and anti-corruption advocates have called for a fair and thorough trial to determine the veracity of the charges against him. Meanwhile, the EFCC has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that justice is served, emphasizing that no individual, regardless of status, is above the law.
Attempts to reach EFCC spokespersons and Bello’s media team for comments have so far been unsuccessful. However, the former governor’s arrest marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat corruption and promote accountability in Nigeria’s political landscape. As the case unfolds, it will likely serve as a litmus test for the country’s ability to enforce the rule of law against powerful individuals accused of financial crimes.
