By DAYO ADESULU
The Chairman of Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has once again stood firmly by his earlier vow to resign if the prosecution of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello fails to move forward, insisting that the anti-graft agency has fulfilled its mandate and that the matter is now squarely before the courts.
Speaking during an interview on Sunday Politics, a flagship programme on Channels Television, Olukoyede offered fresh insight into the high-profile case, responding to public criticism, political pressure, and lingering questions surrounding the pace of the Yahaya Bello prosecution.
EFCC Alleges Diversion of Kogi State Funds
At the centre of the controversy is an allegation that Bello, while still serving as governor, diverted public funds to cover personal expenses ahead of his exit from office.
According to Olukoyede, investigations revealed that Bello allegedly transferred money directly from the Kogi State Government account to a bureau de change, which was then used to pay $720,000 in advance school fees for his child.
“A sitting governor, knowing he was about to leave office, moved money directly from government accounts to a bureau de change and paid his child’s school fees in advance—$720,000,” the EFCC chairman stated.
He described the alleged transaction as deeply troubling, particularly given Kogi State’s economic challenges.
“In a poor state like Kogi, you expect me to look the other way under the excuse that I’m being used? Used by who, at this stage of my life?” Olukoyede asked pointedly.
Defending His 2024 Resignation Pledge
Olukoyede also revisited his widely publicised statement from April 2024, when he vowed to resign if Bello was not prosecuted, a declaration that drew national attention and intensified scrutiny of the EFCC’s operations.
“At the height of the controversy, I said clearly: if I do not personally oversee the completion of the investigation into Yahaya Bello, I would resign,” he recalled.
Addressing critics who argue that the case has dragged on for too long, the EFCC chairman maintained that the agency has kept its word.
“Have I not fulfilled that promise? Is Yahaya Bello not being prosecuted? The case is already before the courts,” he said.
‘EFCC Is Not the Judge’
While acknowledging public frustration over the slow pace of high-profile corruption trials in Nigeria, Olukoyede stressed that the EFCC’s responsibility ends with investigation and prosecution, not conviction.
“I have three cases against Yahaya Bello. Am I the judge? I am not the one who determines conviction,” he said.
According to him, the commission has conducted thorough investigations, filed charges, and presented evidence, leaving the judiciary to determine the outcome.
“I have done my work. I have fulfilled my mandate. Nigerians must understand that and support us to do more,” Olukoyede added.
Multiple Charges, Multiple Courts
The former Kogi State governor is currently facing several charges across different courts, reflecting the scale and complexity of the alleged financial crimes.
In one case, Bello is standing trial on a 16-count charge related to alleged property fraud valued at ₦110 billion, alongside Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu.
Separately, before the Federal High Court, he is also answering to a 19-count charge bordering on alleged fraud and money laundering involving ₦80.2 billion.
These cases stem from extensive EFCC investigations into Bello’s financial dealings while in office.
Background: ‘Wanted’ Declaration and Political Tension
The Yahaya Bello prosecution gained further national prominence in April 2024 when the EFCC declared the former governor wanted over alleged financial crimes amounting to about ₦80 billion.
That move triggered intense political debate, with supporters accusing the EFCC of bias, while anti-corruption advocates praised the agency for taking a bold stance against alleged abuse of public office.
Despite the controversy, Olukoyede insists the commission remains undeterred.
“This man has been investigated. Charges have been filed. The matter is gaining traction in court,” he said.
EFCC Vows to See Case Through
Reiterating the seriousness of the allegations, Olukoyede said the discovery of the $720,000 school fees payment emerged during a detailed review of Bello’s financial records.
He assured Nigerians that the EFCC would pursue the case to its logical conclusion, regardless of the influence or status of those involved.
“The courts will decide the final outcome, but we will continue to do our duty without fear or favour,” he said.
As proceedings continue, the Yahaya Bello prosecution remains one of Nigeria’s most closely watched corruption cases, serving as a key test of the country’s commitment to accountability and the rule of law.
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