The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, has expressed concern over the interference of Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo in the operations of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Ododo allegedly assisted his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, in evading a siege by EFCC operatives on Wednesday.
The EFCC had restricted movement around Bello’s residence located on Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja. Hours later, Ododo arrived at Bello’s residence and was reportedly seen leaving with his predecessor.
The EFCC named Bello in an amended money laundering charge filed against Alli Bello, chief of staff to the current Kogi governor. Alli Bello and Daudu Suleiman face a 17-count amended charge for allegedly diverting approximately N100 billion belonging to the Kogi government.
In response, the Kogi government denied that state funds went missing under the former governor.
The AGF stated that the “bizarre drama” confronting the EFCC in performing its statutory duty is a matter of grave concern.
Fagbemi emphasized that the EFCC has the authority to invite any person of interest, regardless of status, during its investigations. He criticized the obstruction of EFCC’s efforts by public officials and called it “insufferably disquieting.”
He stated that fleeing from legal authorities exacerbates issues instead of resolving them and reiterated his support for the rule of law. He called for institutions of the state to function effectively and efficiently, emphasizing that Nigeria’s judicial system is capable of protecting those who follow the rule of law.
The AGF encouraged individuals invited by the EFCC or any other agency to cooperate and honor such invitations instead of attempting to escape, which he warned could negatively impact Nigeria’s international image.
