EFCC Attempts to Arrest Former Governor Yahaya Bello: Media Team Raises Concerns
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has made another attempt to arrest the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, by laying siege to the Kogi Government Lodge in Abuja. This development has raised serious questions about the motives of the anti-graft agency, particularly after Bello voluntarily presented himself for questioning earlier.
Media Office Questions EFCC’s Motives
According to Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, the EFCC’s actions have caused confusion. He questioned why the former governor was not interrogated when he visited the commission's office on Wednesday. Michael expressed surprise that despite this visit, the EFCC launched an aggressive attempt to arrest Bello later that day.
Discrepancy in EFCC's Response to Bello’s Visit
Bello’s media team has maintained that the former governor willingly honored the EFCC’s invitation for questioning. However, the EFCC has disputed this claim, calling it false. According to Michael, “It was reported earlier that the former governor went to the EFCC office voluntarily, but the commission told him to leave and return at a later date, only for them to initiate a forceful arrest attempt at the Kogi Government Lodge in Asokoro.”
Allegations of Unnecessary Force
The media office further alleged that the EFCC operatives resorted to aggressive measures during their attempt to arrest Bello. “People suspected to be EFCC operatives are currently around the Kogi Government Lodge, Asokoro, in an attempt to forcefully arrest former Governor Yahaya Bello. They were shooting sporadically,” said Michael.
He added that the sudden escalation raised concerns about the EFCC’s true objectives. “Tonight’s attack was needless, as the former governor made himself available to the EFCC for interrogation. The EFCC had no questions for Alh. Yahaya Bello in the morning, but suddenly, they are out to arrest him.”
Condemnation and Accusations of Political Motives
Michael condemned the EFCC’s actions, suggesting that the agency was not merely fighting corruption but engaging in politically motivated actions. “This action is condemnable. They have displayed the very reason many Nigerians believe they are fighting political battles instead of fulfilling their mandate to combat corruption,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, promising to keep the public informed of any further developments. “We want to place it on record that the EFCC should be held accountable if anything untoward happens to him. We will keep Nigerians posted,” he concluded.
Conclusion
The renewed attempt to arrest Yahaya Bello has sparked controversy, with allegations of excessive force and political interference in the fight against corruption. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the EFCC will respond to these accusations and whether this confrontation will further complicate the agency's public image
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