The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, at midnight, following months of evasion. NewsOnline Nigeria reports that Mr. Bello was apprehended by EFCC operatives in Lokoja and is currently at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
The former governor faces a 19-count charge of money laundering amounting to N80 billion. Since April 2024, when the case was filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Mr. Bello has been absent from court, prompting the authorities to intensify efforts to secure his presence. A source close to the investigation revealed that the EFCC had been tracking Mr. Bello for some time before his eventual arrest.
This development follows public concerns over his failure to appear before the court to answer to the allegations of financial misconduct during his tenure as governor of Kogi State. The EFCC's action has reignited discussions about accountability and the fight against corruption in Nigeria.
Mr. Bello’s legal team has yet to issue a statement regarding the arrest. Meanwhile, the public awaits the former governor's next court appearance, where he is expected to take his plea.
This high-profile arrest adds to the growing list of former public officials facing scrutiny for financial crimes, as the EFCC continues its crackdown on corruption across the country.
