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Save Nigeria Initiative Accuses EFCC of Targeting Yahaya Bello for Political Reasons

Published by Tope Fakinlede on October 1st, 2024.

Save Nigeria Initiative Accuses EFCC of Targeting Yahaya Bello for Political Reasons

The Save Nigeria Initiative has voiced alarm over what it labels a politically driven media trial and persecution of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). In a recent statement, Dr. Abayomi Arabambi, the group’s convener, criticized the EFCC for allegedly subjecting Bello to undue humiliation and urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to step in.

Dr. Arabambi described the situation as a “melodrama” unfolding between the EFCC and the former governor. He noted that despite being declared wanted by the EFCC, Bello voluntarily reported to the agency’s office, only to leave without any questioning.

The group challenged the EFCC’s decision not to detain Bello for an interrogation, questioning the logic behind it. “If someone is declared wanted and shows up at your office, shouldn’t they be interrogated?” Arabambi asked.

Furthermore, the initiative denounced the EFCC’s claim that Bello’s “fanfare” entrance was a reason for not arresting him, calling it “unacceptable and nonsensical.” They drew comparisons to the public arrival of former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose at the EFCC in 2018, where no similar issues arose.

The Save Nigeria Initiative suggested that the EFCC’s actions are part of a broader conspiracy against Bello by his political adversaries. They also commented on the presence of the current Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, at the EFCC, emphasizing that as the custodian of state funds, he had every right to be there.

“Public confidence in the EFCC has diminished, as it seems they are executing a plan laid out by Yahaya Bello’s political rivals,” Arabambi stated, arguing that the agency’s inconsistent behavior—welcoming Bello only to later conduct a raid on the governor’s lodge—amounted to a political witch hunt.

The group expressed deep concern over reports of EFCC operatives firing shots while trying to apprehend Bello later that evening, describing it as an attempt to harm the former governor under the pretense of combating corruption.

Labeling the entire incident a fabricated plot and a case of selective justice, the Save Nigeria Initiative accused the EFCC of violating due process by attempting to bring Bello to trial outside Kogi State, contrary to a Supreme Court ruling.

“Governor Yahaya Bello has never been a fugitive,” Arabambi noted, pointing out that Bello has consistently engaged in legal proceedings through his attorneys. The group refuted claims that he was evading the law.

Finally, the Save Nigeria Initiative questioned the EFCC’s integrity, alleging internal corruption and a lack of oversight. “The EFCC must address its internal issues or risk undermining the anti-corruption agenda,” Arabambi warned.

The group concluded by urging President Tinubu to take swift action to restore public trust in the EFCC before it “completely alienates the Nigerian populace.”

Dr. Abayomi Arabambi

Convener, Save Nigeria Initiative

Abuja