₦80B Scandal: We Have Given Yahaya Bello Last Chance To Defend Himself – EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a final ultimatum to former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, demanding his appearance in court to respond to serious allegations of money laundering totalling ₦80.2 billion.

According to a reliable source within the commission, Bello has been instructed to appear in court on Wednesday.

This comes after his previous attempts to surrender to the agency were dismissed over concerns that his intentions were not aligned with the commission’s operational integrity.

The EFCC revealed that its investigations had uncovered intelligence indicating that Bello’s motives for surrendering might not be genuine.

Upon his arrival at the EFCC’s premises, he was reportedly in contact with certain officers, who misled him and ultimately jeopardized his efforts to surrender.

The agency emphasized that Bello is facing a 19-count charge of money laundering and expressed concern that his attempts to circumvent the legal process would not be tolerated.

The source said, “The EFCC is a highly professional agency with strict guidelines regarding the arrest, bail, surrender of wanted suspects, investigation, and prosecution. He presented himself like an emperor in an environment where he is a suspect.

“Additionally, the Commission encountered intelligence suggesting that his motives for surrender could jeopardize his trial.

“These factors led Ola Olukoyede to act swiftly and reject his contrived surrender offer. The only remaining opportunity for him is to appear in court on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, to enter his plea.

“The Commission is not concerned about his maneuvers because charges have already been filed against him, and his delay tactics could only worsen his case. His last opportunity is to present himself in court, which is the only action that can help his case.”