Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has arrived at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission headquarters in Abuja, accompanied by his successor, Governor Usman Ododo.
Earlier, Bello’s Director of Media, Ohiare Michael, announced the former governor’s decision to honour the EFCC’s invitation after consultations with his family, legal team, and political associates.
The statement, titled: “Former Governor Yahaya Bello Honours EFCC’s Invitation,” confirmed that Bello was joined by several high-profile Nigerians during his visit to the agency.
Reacting, the anti-graft agency’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale denied that the former governor was in its custody, adding that Bello remains wanted.
But Bello’s team, in another statement by its Director, Ohiare Michael said Bello was at the EFCC office alongside his successor, Usman Ododo.
He added that the EFCC did not, however, interrogate him and told him he could leave.
Michael said, “ Earlier today, we reported the voluntary visit of former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission office to honour the Commission’s invitation.
“In the statement, we reiterated the former Governor’s great respect for the rule of law and constituted authority and stressed that all the while, he only sought the enforcement of his fundamental rights in order to ensure due process.
“The EFCC did not, however, interrogate him as officials told him he could leave. We don’t know what this means yet. As we write, Yahaya Bello has left the EFCC office. He was accompanied there by the Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo.
“Recall that the case has been before a competent court of jurisdiction, and Alhaji Yahaya Bello had been duly represented by his legal team at every hearing. The former Governor decided to honour the invitation to clear his name as he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear. “
