Ex-Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello may face EFCC probe as immunity expires

As the tenure of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello, ended on January 27, 2024, there are strong indications that he may be invited for questioning by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Bello, who previously enjoyed immunity while in office, is now susceptible to investigation and potential legal actions, DailyTimes reports.

Sources suggest that the EFCC and other security agencies are preparing to question Bello regarding his eight years of administration as the executive Governor of Kogi State. The move comes after the expiration of Bello’s immunity, making him subject to scrutiny for alleged financial infractions and money laundering.

This development follows the EFCC’s appeal challenging a previous ruling that struck out its suit seeking the forfeiture of 14 properties and ₦400 million linked to Bello, citing his immunity from prosecution under the 1999 constitution. The EFCC contends that the immunity granted to the former governor does not extend to properties reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime.

Justice Nicholas Oweibo of the Federal High Court had previously granted an interim forfeiture of the properties, directing the Commission to publish the order within 14 days. However, Bello’s legal team sought to vacate the order, arguing that most of the properties were acquired before he became governor.

The EFCC, in response, maintains that Bello’s failure to respond to their counter-affidavit implies agreement with the application. The agency argues that the investigation into financial crimes is not precluded by the immunity clause, emphasizing that Section 308 allows for the investigation of individuals protected under immunity.