Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, has agreed to attend a hearing with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This decision follows a ruling from the Abuja Court of Appeal on August 20, which mandated his appearance for arraignment.
The EFCC had previously issued an arrest warrant for Bello due to his repeated noncompliance with court orders. As a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), he is facing multiple charges, including 19 counts related to money laundering, breach of trust, and the alleged misappropriation of approximately N80.2 billion in public funds.
In a statement released by his media team on Wednesday, it was revealed that his decision to respond to the EFCCâs summons came after discussions with his family, legal advisors, and political associates. The EFCC had branded him a wanted man back in April after he failed to respond to several invitations and resisted arrest.
Ohiare Michael, the Director of Media at Belloâs office, clarified in a press release that Bello is cooperating with the anti-corruption agency.
The statement emphasized the former governorâs respect for the rule of law and his commitment to supporting President Tinubuâs efforts to combat corruption in the country. It read, âThis decision was made after due consultations with his family, legal team, and political allies.â
It continued, âThe former Governor has always sought the enforcement of his fundamental rights to ensure due process. He has been represented by his legal team at every court hearing, and it is now important for him to honor the EFCCâs invitation to clear his name, as he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear.â
The statement concluded by noting that Bello was the first Governor of Kogi State to implement an anti-corruption mechanism aimed at ensuring that state resources benefit the people.