Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has finally honoured the invitation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after months of evading arrest.

Bello’s media office announced the development on Wednesday, stating that the decision came after consultations with his family, legal team, and political allies.

EFCC Alleges N80 Billion Money Laundering

The EFCC had declared Bello wanted in April 2024 after he shunned several invitations and resisted arrest. The anti-graft agency accused him of being involved in money laundering to the tune of N80,246,470,089.88.

According to EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, Bello allegedly moved N80 billion from the government’s account to a bureau de change to pay his children’s school fees in advance.

Previous Attempts to Arrest Bello

In April 2024, EFCC officials stormed Bello’s residence in Abuja to arrest him, but the operation was unsuccessful. The security operatives, reinforced by the Police and Department of State Services (DSS), planned to forcefully arrest Bello when Governor Usman Ododo, Bello’s successor, arrived at the scene.

Bello’s Response

Bello’s media office stated that it hopes the EFCC will be professional and respect his fundamental rights as a citizen. The details of Bello’s engagement with the EFCC will be disclosed later.

Related Cases

Bello is also facing charges alongside his nephew, Ali Bello, and others for alleged money laundering and breach of trust. The EFCC is prosecuting them on a 17-count charge of money laundering, misappropriation of funds, and conspiracy.

Key Takeaways:

• Yahaya Bello honours EFCC invitation after months of evading arrest
• EFCC alleges N80 billion money laundering
• Bello faces probe over alleged misappropriation of funds
• Former governor’s media office hopes for professional investigation