Olukoyede Vows to Resign if Yahaya Bello Not Prosecuted: EFCC Barricades Ex-Governor’s House

In a bid to uphold the integrity of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), its Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, has declared that he will resign if former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello is not prosecuted to a logical conclusion.

This declaration comes amid a series of legal actions taken by the EFCC against Bello, who is accused of money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of funds to the tune of N80.2 billion.

The EFCC has been pursuing the former governor over allegations of withdrawing $720,000 from the government account to a Bureau de Change for the payment of his child’s school fees in advance.

This case is among the 19 counts of alleged financial crimes against Bello, which the anti-graft agency is determined to prosecute.

In a recent interview, Olukoyede reiterated his commitment to the cause, stating that he will not relent in his efforts to ensure that the country is rid of corruption.

He emphasized the need for the support of Nigerians in this endeavor, as the success or failure of the EFCC will have a direct impact on the nation’s progress.

The EFCC has already taken steps to ensure that the legal process against Bello is carried out, with the Federal High Court in Abuja ordering that a copy of the charge sheet be served on the former governor’s legal representative.

This followed Bello’s absence in court for his arraignment on a 19-count charge of alleged money laundering to the tune of ₦80bn.

Justice Emeka Nwite, who presided over the case, held that the failure of the former governor to appear in court for his arraignment made it necessary for the charges to be served through substituted means.

The court also rejected the plea by Bello’s lawyer, Mohammed, to allow a junior lawyer to accept the charges on behalf of the former governor.

Despite the legal challenges, Olukoyede remains resolute in his determination to see the case through to the end, even going as far as to threaten resignation if Bello is not prosecuted.

This unwavering stance by the EFCC Chairman sends a strong message that no one is above the law and that the fight against corruption will continue to be a top priority in Nigeria.