Action Aid Nigeria has challenged the federal government on the need to use the force of state to arrest the immediate past governor of Kogi state, Yahaya Bello.
Andrew Memudu AI country Director in Nigeria while speaking to Vanguard said the former governor no longer enjoys immunity, and should be arrested immediately.
The magazine reports that Bello is being wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for alleged over N80 billion fraud while in office as helmsman.
Last month, the former governor was allegedly aided by his successor Governor Usman Ododo to escape from his Abuja home after the antigraft agency laid a siege on the property will the aim to arrest him.
Bello has challenged the planned arrest by the EFCC in court.
Speaking, Memudu noted that the fact that Bello has been able to escape arrest by security agencies speaks of the commitment of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration commitment to fighting corruption.
Considering the weight of the case against the former governor, AAN said the Presidency should have come down hard to ensure that Bello is arrested at all cost to answer to the fraud allegation against him.
He said Bello should come out of hiding to prove his innocence instead of making himself a fugitive of the law.
According to him, the international community is watching Nigeria, on how the case will be prosecuted, urging the EFCC to prove that its war against corruption is not a ruse.
He added that Governor Ododo should be investigated to ascertain his culpability in the escape of Bello in Abuja, and If found guilty, should also be prosecuted.
AAN said, “When a former governor eludes legal accountability, it reflects poorly on the nation’s commitment to the rule of law and justice. This situation with Yahaya Bello demands more rigorous intervention than what is currently being deployed.
“In such extreme circumstances, one would expect the Presidency to wield its full authority and do more towards the immediate arrest of the former governor, ensuring he faces charges in a competent court of law.
“Allegations of corruption totalling over N80 billion against a former governor and his aide are grave matters that cannot be taken lightly, and the handling of their arrest should reflect the seriousness of these charges.
“If Yahaya Bello believes in his innocence, he should not hide behind any false pretense. Instead, he should step forward to defend himself and his integrity. His evasion of law enforcement only adds to public suspicion and further tarnishes his reputation.
“Surrendering to authorities and cooperating with the judicial process is essential for addressing the charges against him in a lawful manner. Demonstrating respect for the rule of law and legal institutions is not only in his best interest but also crucial for upholding the integrity of the nation’s justice system.
“The EFCC must ensure stronger coordination with the police, customs, navy and other security agencies to prevent further evasion, particularly under disguise. Engaging with international anti-corruption agencies to track and apprehend all those involved in the corruption charges who may want to flee the country, including Yahaya Bello, is very important now in ensuring that justice is served.
“Additionally, the National Assembly and the Kogi State Assembly, should exercise its legislative function to investigate and address any misuse of power by Governor Ododo.
“Where the constitution empowers the State Assembly, to investigate and hold to account (including motion to impeach) the Governor of Kogi State, who enjoys immunity as a sitting Governor.
“Upholding the independence of the judiciary is paramount to prevent political interference in investigations and prosecutions. All individuals, regardless of their status, must be held accountable under the law.
“If both Governor Ododo and Yahaya Bello are found guilty, they must face the full consequences of their actions. After all, the immunity of a sitting Governor is not absolute. The national and state assembly should take appropriate action to ensure that Governor Ododo is held accountable and that Yahaya Bello is brought to justice.
“The eyes of Nigerians and the international community are on this case, and failure to address it decisively may tarnish Nigeria’s reputation and deter international engagement in governance and judicial partnerships.”
Reports claimed recently that the former governor is planning to flee the country to escape prosecution.
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