Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has been taken into custody by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at their headquarters in Abuja.
Contrary to earlier reports suggesting he had voluntarily turned himself in, sources within the EFCC have confirmed that Bello was apprehended in a covert midnight operation.
According to Vanguard, an insider disclosed that EFCC operatives tracked and arrested Bello in Lokoja under the cover of night, debunking claims that he had surrendered willingly.
“Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, is currently at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in Abuja. He was arrested in Lokoja, with operatives trailing and apprehending him at midnight,” the source said.
Earlier, a statement from Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, claimed that the former governor had presented himself to the EFCC after consulting with his family, legal team, and political associates.
The statement emphasized that Bello, known for his respect for the rule of law, made the decision in an effort to clear his name.
Michael’s statement partly read, “Former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Yahaya Bello, today honoured the invitation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
“This decision was made after due consultations with his family, legal team, and political allies.
“The former Governor, who has great respect for the rule of law and constituted authority, had, all the while, only sought the enforcement of his fundamental rights to ensure due process.
“The case has been before a competent court of jurisdiction, and Alhaji Yahaya Bello had been duly represented by his legal team at every hearing.
“It is important for the former Governor to now honour the invitation of the EFCC to clear his name as he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear.”