Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, is reportedly under “protective custody” of the Kogi State government following his declaration as wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). According to sources, Bello has been receiving protection from state security agents since the EFCC’s failed attempt to apprehend him.
EFCC Red Notice and International Implications
The EFCC has issued a Red Notice for Bello to the International Criminal Police Organization, Interpol. A Red Notice is an international request for the location and provisional arrest of a person pending extradition or surrender. This notice effectively means that Bello can be arrested in any Interpol member country, excluding Micronesia, North Korea, Palau, and Tuvalu, which are not members.
Botched Arrest and Fraud Allegations
In April, the EFCC declared Bello wanted in connection with an alleged N80 billion fraud. EFCC operatives had previously attempted to arrest him at his Abuja residence. During this incident, Bello’s handpicked successor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, allegedly assisted him in evading capture.
The Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, responded to the incident by warning against obstructing the EFCC in its duties. Consequently, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) placed Bello on a watchlist, and the police headquarters ordered the withdrawal of officers attached to him.
Ola Olukoyede, the EFCC chairman, has accused Bello of withdrawing $720,000 from Kogi’s coffers to prepay his child’s school fees. Additionally, the EFCC has filed a 19-count charge against him for alleged money laundering. However, Bello’s arraignment has been delayed due to his absence, with his counsel, Abdulwahab Mohammed, citing safety concerns.
International Watchlist and Current Status
The EFCC has recently sought the assistance of Interpol operatives in Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria to add Bello to their watchlist. The issuance of the Red Notice now poses a significant risk for Bello, as he can be arrested in nearly any country he visits.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how long the former governor will remain under the protective custody of the Kogi State government and what steps the EFCC will take next in their pursuit.
The Cable.
