NIGERIA: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello a fugitive and has ordered his immediate arrest.
This declaration follows multiple unsuccessful attempts to apprehend him, and his current whereabouts remain unknown.
According to EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale, Bello faces charges of money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of N80.2 billion during his tenure as governor.
In an interview on News Central TV on Thursday, Oyewale stated that the agency is collaborating with both local and international law enforcement agencies to ensure Bello’s apprehension.
He emphasized, “The Court of Appeal ruling serves to reinforce the commission’s position and confirms our commitment to this case.”
Oyewale added, “At this point, Yahaya Bello cannot appear in public or make himself available anywhere because he has become a fugitive, and we understand the legal consequences.
“Wherever he is seen, he will be arrested,” he concluded.
The EFCC’s declaration follows a Court of Appeal ruling in Abuja on August 20, 2024, which ordered Bello to appear for arraignment on the corruption charges filed by the EFCC.
