The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, recently named the immediate past Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello in a corruption case instituted in court since 2022. This development was made possible following a fresh amendment introduced into the ongoing case. The anti-graft agency, in an amended charge, accused Bello of diverting N80billion of state funds in September 2015, four months before he assumed office.

The EFCC had arraigned Bello’s nephew, Ali Bello, before the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, for alleged money laundering to the tune of N10 billion belonging to the state government. The commission also named in the count alleged co-conspirator, Abdulsalami Hud, (Kogi State Government House Cashier), who it described as being “at large”.

The recent actions taken by the EFCC, under the leadership of Ola Olukoyede, called for serious concerns regarding the motives behind the renewed scrutiny of ex-Governor Bello. It is disheartening to witness the misuse of the EFCC as a weapon for settling political scores and advancing personal vendettas. The allegations levelled against ex-Governor Bello, particularly in light of the amended charge sheet featuring his name, smack of desperation and a blatant disregard for due process. The timing of these accusations, coinciding with political developments and the upcoming elections, further underscores the ulterior motives at play.

The commission is accusing former Governor Bello of allegedly misappropriating funds amounting to over Eighty Billion Naira since September 2015. However, it is crucial to note that Bello assumed office as Kogi State Governor in January 2016, raising questions about the veracity of these claims and the integrity of the EFCC’s investigation. The actions of the commission confirms various allegations against it that it has become a tool for political victimisation rather than the purpose of its creation.

Furthermore, the politicisation of corruption cases and the resort to media sensationalism by the EFCC represent egregious violations of the principles of justice and fair play. History has shown us the dangers of using extra-constitutional means to fight corruption, as witnessed in past instances where EFCC actions led to political turmoil and constitutional breaches.

It is incumbent upon the EFCC to uphold the rule of law, adhere to due process, and refrain from being influenced by political interests or partisan agendas. The integrity of our anti-corruption institutions must be safeguarded at all costs to preserve the sanctity of our democracy and the principles of justice and accountability.

The persecution of former Governor Yahaya Bello underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms within the EFCC and other anti-corruption agencies to ensure their independence, professionalism, and adherence to constitutional mandates. The relentless pursuit of political vendettas undermines the credibility of our institutions and jeopardizes the progress towards a corruption-free Nigeria. It is time for the EFCC to refocus its efforts on combating corruption without fear or favor, guided solely by the pursuit of truth and justice.

Little wonder over 300 anti-corruption CSOs called into question the professionalism and competency of the EFCC leadership and legal team in pursuing these allegations. The hasty nature of the amended charge, coupled with the lack of factual evidence, only serves to undermine the credibility of the Commission and erode public trust in its ability to carry out impartial and thorough investigations.

Former Governor Bello, despite the allegations leveled against him, deserves to be treated with fairness and respect for his rights. His contributions to the development of Kogi State and his commitment to public service should not be overshadowed by unsubstantiated accusations. It is essential that the EFCC conducts its investigations with utmost professionalism and transparency, ensuring that justice is served without fear or favor.

We call on the EFCC to refrain from making a mockery of Nigeria’s anti-corruption war and to live up to its responsibility as a guardian of integrity and accountability. It is only through steadfast adherence to the principles of justice and fairness that we can truly combat corruption and uphold the rule of law in our society.