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 face serious allegations of money laundering amounting to ₦80.2 billion.
The EFCC has ordered Bello to appear in court on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, to respond to a 19-count money laundering charge.
A reliable source within the commission revealed that while Bello previously attempted to surrender to the EFCC, his efforts were rejected due to concerns about the sincerity of his motives. The EFCC noted that intelligence indicated Bello’s surrender attempt might not have been genuine, potentially jeopardizing the integrity of the legal process.
The EFCC clarified that its decision to reject Bello’s surrender stemmed from his approach and interactions with certain officers who misled him during the process. The commission emphasized that it operates under strict guidelines regarding suspects’ arrest, bail, and surrender and will not tolerate attempts to circumvent the legal process.
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede swiftly rejected Bello’s contrived offer, stating that the only opportunity left for him was to appear in court as required. The source added, “His manoeuvres will not delay the trial as charges have already been filed. His failure to comply will only worsen his case.”
Bello’s next legal step is to enter his plea in court on Wednesday, as further delays could exacerbate his situation.
