Alleged Financial Misconduct: Ex-Gov Bello Responds to EFCC’s Adjusted Accusations

Allegations of financial misconduct continue to swirl around former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly adjusted its accusations against him.

Bello’s media office released a statement condemning what they perceive as an orchestrated campaign of persecution by the EFCC.

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The statement alleges that the EFCC, in a bid to satisfy certain political interests, has pursued charges against Bello without regard for due process.

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Specifically, the EFCC is accused of rehashing allegations of misappropriating N80 billion, this time claiming the funds were stolen within weeks of Bello assuming office in February 2016, rather than in September 2015 as initially stated.

Bello’s media office asserts that these charges are baseless and politically motivated, aimed at tarnishing Bello’s reputation and hindering his political career.

Furthermore, the media office accuses certain EFCC lawyers of colluding with opposition figures to target Bello. They cite the involvement of J.S. Okutepa, SAN, who they claim has a history of working against Bello and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

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Despite legal orders restraining the EFCC from pursuing further action against Bello, the commission allegedly persists in its efforts. The media office calls on President Muhammadu Buhari to intervene and ensure that the EFCC operates within the confines of the rule of law.

Meanwhile, the Kogi State government maintains that its financial records are clean and up-to-date, refuting claims of missing or stolen funds. Bello remains committed to the development of Kogi State and aligns himself with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.