The Integrity Group Network alleges that former Governor Yahaya Bello maintains significant control over Kogi State’s affairs despite leaving office.
Recently, TheCable exclusively reported that Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi, has been residing in the Kogi state government house under “protective custody” since the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) declared him wanted.
Bello, who handpicked his successor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reportedly enjoyed protection from state security agents since the EFCC’s failed arrest attempt.
The group, in a statement issued on Wednesday, claimed that Bello operates from the Presidential Lodge within the government house, reviewing files and official correspondence before they are signed by the current governor, Usman Ododo.
“It is against this background that we raise concerns about the extent of Bello’s influence over the current administration and the potential for undue interference in the governance of the state,” the group said.
They urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to take swifter action and bring Bello to justice rather than just issuing statements.
The group called for a thorough investigation into the allegations and for the EFCC to use its authority to ensure Bello is held accountable for any wrongdoing.
The group further accused Yahaya Bello of continuing to govern Kogi State by proxy despite his term ending.
Meanwhile, a lawyer for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) revealed that the agency is working with other security agencies to apprehend former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello from the Government House in Lokoja, the state capital.