Latest EFCC update: Was Yahaya Bello arrested?

Conflicting reports have been published about former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello‘s situation with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

According to the EFCC, an arrest warrant was obtained, suggesting that he was taken into custody due to pending charges.

However, Yahaya Bello’s media office has refuted this, stating that he was not arrested but voluntarily honoured an invitation from the EFCC.

They emphasized that Bello drove himself to the commission’s office in Abuja, accompanied by his legal team, and was not coerced or detained.

Read the full statement below

Press Statement

Yahaya Bello not Arrested, Voluntarily Honours EFCC Invitation

Our attention has been drawn to various reports regarding the appearance of former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) office earlier today, November 26, 2024.

We wish to clarify that Alhaji Yahaya Bello voluntarily honored the invitation of the EFCC as a law-abiding citizen and did so in the company of his legal team. Contrary to false narratives suggesting otherwise, he was neither arrested nor coerced into attending.

It is important to reiterate that Alhaji Yahaya Bello drove himself to the EFCC office in Abuja and remains committed to cooperating fully with the agency in the ongoing matter. This gesture underscores his respect for the rule of law and the judiciary.

The recent Supreme Court judgment affirming the constitutional authority of the EFCC further emphasizes the need for due process and lawful engagement. We are confident that the ongoing legal processes will ultimately vindicate the former governor, as his commitment to transparency and accountability in public service has never wavered.

We urge members of the public to disregard any unfounded insinuations and baseless rumors aimed at tarnishing Alhaji Yahaya Bello’s reputation. His unwavering dedication to the progress of Kogi State and Nigeria at large remains his priority.

Thank you.