The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken a significant step by asking INTERPOL to place former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello on a watch-list in several North African countries, including Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria. This decision follows credible intelligence linking Bello to alleged money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds amounting to approximately N80.2 billion.
Bello, who is facing a 19-count charge, has repeatedly failed to appear before the Federal High Court in Abuja despite summonses. The EFCC’s move to activate the watch-list is aimed at ensuring Bello does not evade justice by fleeing the country. Sources within the EFCC indicate that Bello’s recent attempts to leave Nigeria have been thwarted, underscoring the agency’s determination to prevent him from going into exile.
The activation of the watch-list comes ahead of Bello’s expected court appearance on July 17th. Efforts to transfer his trial to the Federal High Court in Lokoja have been contested, with Bello’s legal team applying for the case to be moved based on jurisdictional grounds.
In response to the EFCC’s actions, Bello’s lawyer sought to withdraw from representing him, citing ongoing legal maneuvers to relocate the trial venue. Meanwhile, the EFCC remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice, emphasizing the importance of holding public officials accountable and preventing potential flight from justice.
As developments unfold, the case against Yahaya Bello continues to draw national attention, highlighting broader issues of accountability and governance in Nigeria. The EFCC’s proactive measures underscore its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that allegations of financial impropriety are thoroughly investigated and prosecuted.
This situation serves as a reminder of the challenges in governance and the imperative of transparency and accountability in public office.
