Why we are yet to arrest Yahaya Bello – EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) announced on Wednesday that former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, accused of N80.2 billion fraud, has disrespected the Nigerian justice system by failing to present himself for trial.

During a visit to the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Asaba, Mr. Effa Okim, the EFCC’s Acting Zonal Director for the Benin Zonal Command, expressed frustration over Bello’s absence and the challenges in bringing him to justice.

The EFCC has been embroiled in a legal battle with Bello over the alleged fraud. After a failed attempt to arrest him and his repeated absence from court, the EFCC declared Bello wanted, with the Nigerian Immigration placing him on a watchlist.

When questioned on Wednesday about the delay in arresting Bello, a visibly frustrated Okim accused the system of shielding the former governor.

“This is a question that shames all of us,” Okim stated. “It’s not just my responsibility; it’s the responsibility of the entire Federal Republic of Nigeria. Yahaya Bello, a politically-exposed person with serious allegations against him, has been evading justice for months. The shame is on us all.”

Okim emphasized the moral and legal obligations to address the situation. “We can catch him, but do we need to go all out when his superiors can simply tell him, ‘You are disgracing Nigeria’? He should report himself to the EFCC like others have done.”

He criticized Bello’s associates for not urging him to surrender. “Where are the ministers and his colleagues? Can’t they tell him to face justice? Instead, people are still dining with him.”

Okim also called out the broader implications for Nigeria’s image and the example being set for the next generation. “Our children are watching their parents act irresponsibly. Even in a fictional Animal Farm, this behavior wouldn’t be tolerated. The media must unite to criticize his actions and demand his accountability.”

The Chairman of the NUJ Delta State Council, Churchill Oyowe, pledged the support of journalists in the state to the EFCC’s efforts.