BREAKING: Anti-Graft Agency EFCC Barricades Ex-Governor Yahaya Bello’s House In Abuja Amid N84billion Fraud Case

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has surrounded the residence of Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, in Wuse, Abuja. This action follows a recent meeting between Bello and President Bola Tinubu at the State House, as reported by SaharaReporters.

The house, situated on Benghazi Street in Wuse Zone 4, is currently inaccessible due to the EFCC’s blockade. This development was captured in a photograph shared by a reliable source, indicating the presence of EFCC operatives obstructing the access road to Bello’s residence.

While the exact reason for the EFCC’s siege remains unclear, it is likely connected to the ongoing N84 billion fraud case against Bello. The EFCC has accused him of diverting state funds amounting to N80 billion in September 2015, prior to assuming office as governor. Additionally, Bello’s nephew, Ali Bello, has been arraigned for alleged money laundering amounting to N10 billion belonging to the state government.

In response to the charges, the State Government has criticized the EFCC’s actions, labeling them as “ridiculous” and “laughable.” They argue that Bello could not have accessed or misappropriated state funds before assuming office. The government further alleges that certain individuals within the EFCC are acting contrary to the anti-corruption efforts of the President.

SaharaReporters previously detailed the EFCC’s legal proceedings against Bello, including the amended 17-count charge of money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of funds totaling N84,062,406,089.88. Despite the charges, former governor Bello remains at large, as per the EFCC’s claims.

One of the charges outlined by the EFCC accuses Bello, along with others, of conspiring to convert N80,246,470,089.88, which allegedly constitutes proceeds of unlawful activities. While Bello and another accused individual remain at large, Ali Bello and Dauda Suleiman, the first and second defendants, respectively, have pleaded not guilty to all charges presented in court.

In summary, the EFCC’s siege on Yahaya Bello’s residence in Abuja follows allegations of financial misconduct, including the diversion of state funds and money laundering. The ongoing legal proceedings highlight the complexities surrounding corruption allegations and the efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat financial crimes in Nigeria.

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