The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC Ola Olukoyede, declared his readiness to step down from his position if former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, is not prosecuted.
Speaking at the EFCC Headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, Olukoyede affirmed his commitment to ensuring that Bello’s prosecution is pursued vigorously.
He also asserted that those impeding Bello’s arrest would face legal consequences. The EFCC is pursuing charges against Bello for alleged money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of funds totaling N80.2 billion.
Olukoyede, emphasized the agency’s unwavering determination to combat corruption, stating that despite challenges and criticism, the EFCC will persist in its mission to cleanse the nation. He stressed the importance of public support for the EFCC’s efforts, highlighting their positive impact on Nigeria’s economy, including the stabilization of the naira and foreign exchange markets.
In related developments, the EFCC has provided a copy of the charge sheet to Bello and his lawyer, Abdulwahab Mohamed, following a court order issued by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Bello’s absence during the court proceedings led to the utilization of substituted service, as permitted by the law. Justice Nwite underscored the former governor’s failure to appear for arraignment, signaling the seriousness of the charges against him.
Story: Elizabeth Ereke