Former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, on Wednesday, visited the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission after months of avoiding their invitations.
The former governor was accompanied by several prominent Nigerians to the EFCC headquarters.
The Director of Yahaya Bello’s Media Office, Ohiare Michael, released a statement explaining that the decision to honor the EFCC’s invitation was made after consulting with his family, legal team, and political allies.
Michael stated, “The former governor, who has great respect for the rule of law and constituted authority, had, all the while, only sought the enforcement of his fundamental rights in order to ensure due process.”
The statement further noted that the legal case involving Bello had been ongoing in a competent court, and his legal team had attended every hearing. “It is important for the former governor to now honor the invitation of the EFCC to clear his name as he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear,” the statement added.
Bello also expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to develop Nigeria’s economy and fight corruption. “The former governor believes firmly in the efforts of the administration of President Bola Tinubu to place Nigeria on the path of sustainable economic development; and supports the fight against corruption in the country,” Michael added.
Michael emphasized that Bello was the first governor of Kogi State to implement an anti-corruption system to ensure the state’s resources were used for its people. “It is our hope that the Commission will be as professional as necessary and respect his fundamental rights as a citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he concluded.
Attempts to get a response from the EFCC were unsuccessful, as the agency’s spokesperson did not confirm or deny Bello’s visit.
