The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has vowed to ensure the prosecution of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, reaches its conclusion.
Speaking to reporters at the EFCC Headquarters in Abuja, Olukoyede promised to step down if Bello is not brought to trial, News About Nigeria reports.
He also warned that anyone obstructing the former governor’s arrest would face consequences.
The EFCC is pursuing 19 charges against Bello, including money laundering and misappropriation of funds totalling N80.2 billion. Olukoyede said the agency is committed to combating corruption, stating that its success is vital for Nigeria’s well-being and economic stability.
According to him, if the agency fails, Nigeria fails.
Recall that Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja recently issued a bench warrant against Bello due to his repeated failure to appear in court.
However, when the operatives of the commission went to secure his arrest at his 9, Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja residence, Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, foiled the attempt and made away with the immediate-past governor.
The EFCC thereafter declared Bello wanted for evading trial.
Meanwhile, Bello has been served a copy of the charge sheet for alleged fraud through his lawyer, Abdulwahab Mohamed.
This followed an order by Justice Nwite on Tuesday, after Bello’s absence in court.
This publication earlier reported that Bellow’s legal representative, Adedipe, informed the court that his client was willing to attend the trial but feared arrest. Adedipe therefore requested the court revoke the ex-parte arrest order since the charges hadn’t been served at the time of the order.
Bello, through his representative, also questioned the legality of the EFCC, arguing that the Federal Government didn’t consult the states before enacting the EFCC Act. He cited constitutional requirements for ratification by state assemblies.
EFCC’s counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, however, countered, urging the court not to revoke the arrest warrant until Bello appears for trial.
“The main issue should be ascertaining the whereabouts of the defendant. All these applications he is filing are nothing but dilatory tactics intended to delay his arraignment and frustrate the proceedings,” Pinheiro said.
“If he gives that assurance, as the prosecution, I will personally apply for the warrant to be discharged.
“It is against an individual who is said to have taken public funds to buy houses in Lagos, Maitama, and also transfered funds to his accounts abroad,” the EFCC added.
