Former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has surrendered to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) amidst allegations of money laundering and corrupt practices to the tune of N80.2 billion.
9News Nigeria recalls that Bello was declared wanted by the EFCC but has maintained that he respects the rule of law and constituted authority.
According to a statement from his media office, Bello’s decision to honour the EFCC invitation was made after consulting with his family, legal team, and political allies.
He said that he had only sought to enforce his fundamental human rights to ensure due process.
The statement reads in part: “The case has been before a competent court of jurisdiction, and Alhaji Yahaya Bello had been duly represented by his legal team at every hearing. It is important for the former Governor to now honour the invitation of the EFCC to clear his name as he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear.
“The former Governor believes firmly in the efforts of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to place Nigeria on the path of sustainable economic development; supports the fight against corruption in the country.
“It is on record that he was the first Governor of Kogi State to put in place an anti-corruption mechanism to check graft and ensure that the resources of the State work for the people of the State.
“He was accompanied to the EFCC Headquarters by high-profile Nigerians.
“It is our hope that the Commission will be as professional as necessary and respect his fundamental rights as a citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Details of his engagement with the operatives of the Anti-Graft Agency will be disclosed later.”
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