Categories: Nigeria News

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.

Idoko Dennis

Idoko Dennis is a creative videographer/drone pilot and sport writer. He heads the sport desk and deputizes the head of Idoma TV

Recent Posts

Soaring rice prices threaten Christmas celebrations for Nigerian families

Rice, a staple for Christmas celebrations in Nigeria, has become a luxury this year. Soaring…

21 hours ago

Panic as Stage collapses during Odumodublvck’s performance at Lagos concert

Panic erupted on Saturday at a concert in Lagos when the stage collapsed during Odumodublvck’s…

21 hours ago

2025 Budget: FG allocates ₦6.36bn for renovation of Tinubu, Shettima’s official quarters

The Federal Government of Nigeria has allocated ₦6,364,181,224 billion for the refurbishment and rehabilitation of…

21 hours ago

Black Market Dollar to Naira Exchange Rate Today 22nd December 2024

The black market dollar to naira exchange rate for today, 22nd December 2024, can be…

21 hours ago

NNPC debunks shutdown rumors, confirms fuel loading at Port Harcourt Refinery

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has refuted claims that the 60,000 barrels per…

21 hours ago

‘We have to find a way’ – Guardiola laments after defeat to Aston Villa

Manchester City finds itself in unprecedented turmoil, with relegation-level form showing little sign of improvement.…

22 hours ago