Ola Olukoyede, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has shed light on his attempts to address corruption allegations against Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, Olukoyede disclosed his communication with Bello regarding the accusations.
Olukoyede recounted how he personally contacted Bello to invite him to the EFCC office for questioning. However, Bello insisted that EFCC officials should visit his village to conduct the interrogation, citing concerns about alleged infiltration of journalists in the EFCC office.
“I called Yahaya Bello, as a serving governor, to come to my office to clear himself. I shouldn’t have done that,” Olukoyede stated. “But he said because a certain senator has planted over 100 journalists in my office, he would not come.”
Despite offering alternative arrangements, including using a private gate for Bello’s convenience, the former governor insisted on being interrogated in his village.
Olukoyede emphasized that the EFCC’s actions in attempting to arrest Bello from his residence did not contravene any laws. He underscored the agency’s commitment to upholding the law and ensuring accountability.
“I inherited the case and I didn’t create it. Why has he not submitted himself to the law?” Olukoyede questioned.
The EFCC chairman vowed to pursue legal action against anyone involved in obstructing Bello’s arrest, affirming the agency’s determination to uphold justice and combat corruption.
The revelations from Olukoyede provide insight into the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in addressing corruption allegations against public officials and underscore the importance of cooperation in investigations.
As the case unfolds, Nigerians await further developments.