Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has surrendered to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following allegations of fraud and corrupt enrichment during his time in office.
Bello, who had been declared wanted by the EFCC, honored the invitation of the anti-graft agency after months of avoiding their summons.
In a statement released by his media team, it was disclosed that Bello made the decision to surrender after consulting with his family, legal team, and political allies.
“The former governor, who holds deep respect for the rule of law and constituted authority, had sought to enforce his fundamental rights to ensure due process was followed,” the statement read.
“The case has been before a competent court, and Alhaji Yahaya Bello has been represented by his legal team at every hearing. He is now ready to engage with the EFCC to clear his name, as he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear.”
The statement further emphasized Bello’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and its efforts to combat corruption, noting that during his tenure as governor, Bello implemented anti-corruption mechanisms to ensure the state’s resources were used for the benefit of the people.
“He was the first Governor of Kogi State to establish an anti-corruption framework aimed at curbing graft,” the statement added.
Bello was reportedly accompanied to the EFCC headquarters by several high-profile Nigerians.
The statement concluded with a call for professionalism from the EFCC and respect for the former governor’s fundamental rights as a citizen, with the assurance that more details of his engagement with the agency will be disclosed later.
