Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, has been placed on INTERPOL’s watchlist by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This measure, covering Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria, comes in light of substantial evidence against Bello concerning financial crimes and his evading court appearance. Bello faces 19 charges, including the misappropriation of approximately N80.2 billion in public funds, money laundering, and breach of trust. Yahaya Bello has failed to appear in court to answer these charges.
Various strategies to address the situation have been considered, including a potential operation at the Kogi State Government House in Lokoja, where Bello is suspected of hiding. The EFCC’s decision to involve INTERPOL was driven by extensive investigations revealing significant financial transactions and assets tied to the former governor. The watchlist was activated ahead of Bello’s scheduled appearance before a Federal High Court in Abuja on July 17. An EFCC source told the newspaper, “We are aware of a botched exit to Morocco via Cameroon. We are determined to stop him from going on exile.”
EFCC and INTERPOL Collaboration
EFCC Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, recently engaged with INTERPOL heads in North Africa during a visit to Tunisia. He officially requested INTERPOL to issue a Red Alert for Bello, which was approved. The EFCC aims to ensure Bello’s presence in court to address the charges against him. Beyond the North African nations, Bello is also under investigation in Sudan, Egypt, and Libya.
Legal Team Issues
In related developments, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) filed a motion to withdraw as Bello’s counsel following his failure to appear in court. The EFCC has urged the court to hold Bello’s legal team accountable for his absence, highlighting breaches of professional conduct. The EFCC’s lead counsel, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), emphasized the need for sanctions against the legal representatives for failing to produce their client as promised.
Bottom Line
The EFCC’s actions against Yahaya Bello underscore a commitment to addressing corruption and ensuring accountability. With INTERPOL’s support, the EFCC aims to prevent Bello from evading justice and to set a precedent for handling financial crimes involving public officials.
