EXCLUSIVE: Yahaya Bello Smuggled From Abuja To Lokoja By Kogi Governor Ododo For Protection With State Resources –Sources
SaharaReporters recently disclosed an incident involving the embattled former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, who was allegedly smuggled out of his residence in Abuja by the current Kogi State governor, Usman Ododo. This event reportedly involved a confrontation between Ododo’s security personnel and the operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) who had laid siege to Bello’s house.
According to sources, shots were fired during the operation, indicating a tense situation. Governor Ododo’s intervention enabled Bello to be transported to Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State, where he could reportedly be better protected using state resources.
It was reported that the EFCC had attempted to arrest Bello, who is facing allegations of financial misconduct, but their efforts were thwarted by the intervention of Governor Ododo’s security detail. The situation escalated to the point where a violent clash was narrowly avoided.
Further reports suggest that the Inspector General of Police provided additional reinforcement to Governor Ododo’s security team to prevent Bello’s arrest, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The EFCC’s pursuit of Bello reportedly involved tracking his location from Lokoja to Abuja after he deliberately left his mobile phone behind to evade detection. However, through the tracking of his aide’s phone, the EFCC was able to locate Bello in Abuja.
In response to the incident, the EFCC issued a stern warning against obstructing its lawful operations, citing the relevant provisions of the EFCC Establishment Act. The commission emphasized that obstructing EFCC personnel from carrying out their duties is a criminal offense punishable by imprisonment.
Yahaya Bello
In a separate statement, the EFCC confirmed the attempted execution of a warrant of arrest against Bello but noted that Governor Ododo’s intervention resulted in Bello’s escape. Despite this setback, the EFCC assured the public that Bello would be brought to justice.
In summary, the incident involving the attempted arrest of Yahaya Bello by the EFCC, his subsequent escape facilitated by Governor Ododo, and the EFCC’s response underscores the challenges and complexities of law enforcement in Nigeria. The incident also highlights the importance of upholding the rule of law and the need for cooperation between law enforcement agencies to combat corruption effectively.
