Coalition of 60 CSOs Blasts EFCC Over Handling of Yahaya Bello Case

A coalition of 60 civil society organizations has raised serious concerns regarding the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) handling of the alleged corruption case against former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.

The group expressed dissatisfaction with the EFCC’s decision to declare Bello wanted without first summoning him for questioning, accusing the agency of engaging in “melodrama, theatrics, and sheer unseriousness” in its fight against corruption.

Oluwasegun Emmanuel, convener of the coalition, pointed out that the EFCC obtained an arrest warrant from Justice Emeka Nwite, a judge who had previously ruled against the commission in a similar case.

Emmanuel described this move as alarming, particularly since Bello had not been officially invited for questioning before being declared wanted.

In a surprising development, Yahaya Bello voluntarily reported to the EFCC for questioning on September 18, but was asked to leave without undergoing interrogation. Hours later, EFCC agents, reportedly accompanied by unidentified individuals, allegedly stormed the Governor’s Lodge, firing live bullets in what appeared to be an attempt to apprehend him.

This incident has sparked concerns about Bello’s safety and the true intentions behind the EFCC’s actions.

The coalition has called for transparency and accountability from the EFCC, stressing the need for clarity regarding Bello’s current whereabouts. The group has urged the Nigerian government and the international community to take action, ensuring that human rights are protected in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption.

The incident has added fuel to ongoing debates about the approach and effectiveness of Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies, with many calling for reforms to prevent what they see as politically motivated actions.