IGP withdraws Police protection from fugitive ex-Gov Yahaya Bello

The Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has ordered the withdrawal of all police officers assigned to the former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello. This directive, conveyed through a police wireless message, underscores a shift in the security arrangements surrounding Bello.

The order, detailed in a document with reference number “CB:4001/DOPS/PMF/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.48/34,” was issued on Friday and instructed immediate compliance. The message explicitly stated the IG’s decision to withdraw police personnel from Bello’s service, emphasizing the importance of adherence to the directive.

This development comes in the wake of the Nigerian Immigration Service’s placement of Bello on its watchlist. The move follows the declaration by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of Yahaya Bello as a wanted individual in connection to an alleged case of money laundering amounting to N80.2 billion.

The withdrawal of police officers from Bello’s security detail signals a significant shift in his security apparatus, possibly reflecting the government’s determination to ensure accountability and address allegations of financial misconduct from the fugitive ex-governor.