The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has issued a strong condemnation of the handling of allegations against the former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema, the CNPP highlighted concerns over the EFCC’s methods and the implications for Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.

Reacting to the latest twist in the drama between the EFCC and the former Governor, the CNPP asserted that the EFCC’s actions have not only embarrassed the nation but have also reinforced the perception that the anti-corruption campaign has been compromised and politicized. “The EFCC’s actions have not only brought embarrassment to our nation but have also fueled the perception that the anti-corruption campaign has been compromised and politicized,” the statement noted.

The CNPP emphasised that such behaviour is “unacceptable” and “undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.” Stating further that it does appear that in the Yahaya Bello case the EFCC is increasingly becoming more perscutory than prosecutory.

The umbrella body of all registered political parties and political associations in the country outlined “a troubling sequence of events involving former Governor Yahaya Bello, who voluntarily surrendered to the EFCC.” However, instead of a straightforward process, he was reportedly asked to go, only the same evening to be subjected to a “gestapo-style raid” by EFCC operatives at the Kogi State Governor’s lodge in Asokoro, Abuja.

The CNPP expressed concern over this approach, stating, “This troubling sequence of events has led many Nigerians to question the true intentions of the EFCC.”

The background of the allegations against Bello was also detailed in the CNPP’s statement. The CNPP recalled that the EFCC had previously attempted to arrest the former Governor on April 17, 2024, just ahead of his scheduled arraignment on April 18, 2024, alongside three other suspects. The charges against them include 19 counts of money laundering, amounting to N80.2 billion. Following a ruling by Justice Emeka Nwite, the EFCC served Bello his charges through his legal counsel, Abdulwahab Muhammad (SAN).

In light of these developments, the CNPP has called for the cessation of all actions that suggest that the EFCC is more interested in persecuting the former Governor of Kogi State. The CNPP demands that the commission “immediately ceases the wanton dramatization of its operations.”

Furthermore, the CNPP urged the EFCC to “redirect its efforts towards genuine anti-corruption initiatives” and to “provide clear and consistent explanations for its contradictory actions.”

The CNPP’s statement emphasized solidarity with Nigerians who are advocating for transparency and fairness in EFCC’s operations. “We stand in solidarity with Nigerians who seek transparency and fairness in EFCC’s operations,” the statement asserted.

It also highlighted Yahaya Bello’s apparent willingness to cooperate with the EFCC, noting that his voluntary surrender and ongoing legal representation demonstrates his commitment to due process.

The CNPP concluded its statement with a call for the EFCC to adhere to the rule of law, rather than succumbing to political expediency or personal vendettas. “The actions of the EFCC must be guided by the rule of law, rather than political expediency or personal vendettas,” the statement urged.

The CNPP equally called on the commission to restore its integrity and focus on the genuine fight against corruption, rather than engaging in what they described as “counterproductive theatrics.”

As the situation unfolds, the CNPP has pledged to continue monitoring the developments closely and to demand accountability from the EFCC. “The implications of this case extend beyond the individuals involved; it is raising critical questions about the integrity of Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts and the role of the EFCC in upholding the rule of law”, the CNPP stated.