Contradictory reports have emerged regarding the arrest status of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) denying that he is in their custody.
Earlier reports suggested that Bello was arrested during a midnight sting operation by EFCC operatives in Lokoja and was being held at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. A source familiar with the case had claimed Bello initially stated he voluntarily honored an invitation from the EFCC but was later trailed and arrested.
However, EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale dismissed these claims, stating, “Media reports today that a former Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello is in the holding facility of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, is incorrect. The Commission wishes to state that Bello is not in its custody.”
Oyewale reiterated that Bello is still wanted for alleged N80.2 billion money laundering charges, adding that a warrant for his arrest remains in effect. “Bello remains wanted with a subsisting warrant for his arrest,” he added.
Meanwhile, Bello’s media office issued a separate statement on Wednesday, claiming that the former governor had voluntarily responded to an EFCC invitation. According to Ohiare Michael, Director of Yahaya Bello Media Office, “The former governor honored the invitation after due consultations with his family, legal team, and political allies.”
The conflicting narratives have added to the confusion surrounding the former governor’s current situation. No further details or evidence have been provided by Bello’s camp regarding his visit to the EFCC headquarters, leaving questions about his status unresolved.
