The media office of former Yahaya Bello, has again raised the alarm over what it describes as an ongoing campaign of persecution orchestrated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a strongly-worded statement released today, the media office raised serious concerns regarding what it perceives as a relentless and unjustified targeting of the former Governor.
The statement begins by highlighting the perceived failure of previous attempts by the EFCC to tarnish the reputation of Alhaji Yahaya Bello through questionable allegations. Despite facing critical scrutiny and backlash over previous accusations of misappropriating Kogi State funds, the EFCC, according to the statement, has now resorted to revising its narrative in a bid to sustain its campaign against the former Governor.
The media office alleges that the EFCC, in collusion with certain political interests, has filed a new set of charges against Alhaji Yahaya Bello, this time accusing him of misappropriating a staggering sum of over N80 billion in February 2016, shortly after assuming office. The statement questions the feasibility of such allegations, considering the limited timeframe in which the purported financial mismanagement is said to have occurred.
Moreover, the media office accuses the EFCC of flouting legal procedures and disregarding court orders in its pursuit of the former Governor. Despite the existence of a restraining order issued by a court of competent jurisdiction, the EFCC allegedly persists in its attempts to harass and prosecute Alhaji Yahaya Bello, thereby undermining the rule of law and due process.
The statement further scrutinizes the composition of the EFCC’s legal team, pointing to perceived conflicts of interest and political bias among its members. Specifically, it calls attention to the involvement of certain individuals who have a history of opposition to Alhaji Yahaya Bello and his political party, raising suspicions of ulterior motives behind the EFCC’s actions.
In conclusion, the media office reiterates Alhaji Yahaya Bello’s commitment to the principles of good governance and accountability, emphasizing his dedication to serving the people of Kogi State. It calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and hold the EFCC accountable for its actions, urging a return to the rule of law and the cessation of what it describes as a politically motivated persecution campaign.
As allegations and counter-allegations continue to unfold, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on the EFCC’s conduct and the broader implications for the fight against corruption and the rule of law in Nigeria.