EFCC logo, Yahaya Bello
By Victory Oghene
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has dismissed the claims by the former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, that he honoured the invitation of the anti-graft agency.
The commission specifically said the former governor remains wanted for alleged N80.2billion money laundering charges.
Dele Oyewale, the spokesman of the agency clarified this in a terse statement sent to journalists in Abuja on Wednesday amidst several enquiries.
Recall that the media office of the former governor earlier issued a statement claiming that Bello finally honoured invitation extended to him by the EFCC.
According to his media office, the decision was made after consultations with his family, legal team and political allies, adding the details of Bello’s engagement with the operatives of the anti-graft agency would be disclosed later.
The statement signed by Ohiare Michael, Director of Yahaya Bello Media Office, said: “It is our hope that the Commission will be as professional as necessary and respect his fundamental rights as a citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
But reacting to the claim, the anti-graft agency’s spokesman wondered why someone who had been declared wanted with a subsisting warrant for his arrest would be sent an invitation.
“Media reports today that a former Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello is in the holding facility of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, is incorrect.
“The Commission wishes to state that Bello is not in its custody. Bello, already declared wanted by the Commission for alleged N80.2billion money laundering charges, remains wanted with a subsisting warrant for his arrest,” Oyewale said.
