The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has accused Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, of using his constitutional immunity to prevent the arrest of former Governor Yahaya Bello. Bello, who was declared wanted over allegations of money laundering and corruption to the tune of N80.2 billion, visited the EFCC headquarters accompanied by Ododo and others ¹.
The EFCC spokesperson denied reports that Bello was in their custody, stating that he “remains wanted with a subsisting warrant for his arrest.” However, EFCC officials claimed that Ododo’s actions hindered their ability to arrest Bello due to his governorship immunity ¹.
This is not the first time Ododo has been accused of shielding Bello. In April, he reportedly facilitated Bello’s escape from EFCC operatives during a raid in Abuja ¹.
Bello’s visit to the EFCC has been plagued by controversy. His media team claimed he had visited the agency, but the EFCC spokesperson denied this. The EFCC later laid siege to the Kogi State Government Lodge in Abuja in an attempt to apprehend Bello, but Ododo’s immunity allowed Bello to escape arrest ¹.
The incident has sparked concerns about the influence of political power in shielding individuals from accountability. The EFCC’s ability to effectively investigate and prosecute corruption cases may be compromised by such interference ¹.
As the investigation continues, Nigerians await the outcome, hoping that justice will be served. The EFCC must navigate the complex web of political interests to ensure that those accused of corruption are held accountable ¹.
