Former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, said he honoured the invitation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, on Wednesday, after consultations with his family, legal team and political allies.
Bello had engaged in a hide-seek game with the anti-graft body since the end of his tenure, over alleged multi-billion-naira money laundering crime perpetuated during his tenure.
He was declared wanted in April for failing to appear before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja to face charges related allegation.
Reports suggested that he had been hiding within the Kogi State government house, from where he engaged in countless failed legal gymnastics with the EFCC
In a volte-face on Wednesday, the former Governor said he turned himself in because he believes firmly in the efforts of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to place Nigeria on the path of sustainable economic development; and supports the fight against corruption in the country.”
Speaking through Ohiare Michael, director of his media office, he hinted of his plan to cooperate with the EFCC on the matter.
Ohiare said, “It is on record that he was the first Governor of Kogi State to put in place an anti-corruption mechanism to check graft and ensure that the resources of the State work for the people of the State.”
The statement stated that Bellow was accompanied to the EFCC Headquarters by unnamed “high-profile Nigerians,” adding, “We hope that the Commission will be as professional as necessary and respect his fundamental rights as a citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
