Immediate past Governor of Kogi State Yahaya Bello has finally surrendered himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, his media office confirmed on Wednesday.
A statement by the Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, Ohiare Michael said his principal’s decision to surrender to the anti-graft agency comes after consultations with his family, legal team, and political associates.
Bello was said to have been accompanied to the EFCC headquarters by several high-profile Nigerians.
The former governor had been under the radar since April after the anti-graft agency attempted to arrest him in Abuja over alleged financial impropriety while he was the number one citizen of Kogi.
He and three others are facing 19 counts related to money laundering to the tune of N80.2 billion.
The statement said Bello had previously pursued the enforcement of his fundamental rights to ensure due process in the ongoing investigation.
“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. It is important for the former Governor to now honour the invitation of the EFCC to clear his name as he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear.
“The former Governor believes firmly in the efforts of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to place Nigeria on the path of sustainable economic development; and supports the fight against corruption in the country,” the statement read.
The EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale had yet to comment on the development.
Recall that in April, the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, had vowed to resign if the embattled former governor is not prosecuted.
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