The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has alleged that some of its staff are protecting former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello from being arrested. Bello is accused of N80.2 billion fraud and has repeatedly failed to appear in court for his arraignment.
EFCC’s acting Zonal Director, Benin Zonal Command, Mr. Effa Okim, made this statement during a visit to the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Asaba. Okim expressed frustration that Bello has ridiculed the Nigerian justice system by failing to present himself for trial.
Despite being declared wanted and placed on a watchlist by the Nigerian Immigration, Bello remains at large. When asked about the delay in his arrest, Okim claimed that the ex-governor is being shielded by the system, hinting at internal sabotage within the EFCC.
The EFCC has been pursuing a legal battle against Bello over the alleged fraud, but his continued absence from court and alleged protection by some EFCC staff have hindered progress in the case.