The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified that former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, is not in its custody despite media reports to the contrary. In a statement on Wednesday, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed that Bello remains wanted for alleged money laundering involving ₦80.2 billion.

"Reports claiming that Mr. Yahaya Bello is in the EFCC's holding facility are false. The Commission states that Bello is not in custody and remains wanted, with an active warrant for his arrest," Oyewale emphasized.

This statement contradicts claims made by Bello's media office. Ohiare Michael, Director of Yahaya Bello’s Media Office, had earlier issued a statement asserting that the former governor had honored the EFCC's invitation after consulting with his family, legal team, and political allies.

Michael later reiterated that Bello had visited the EFCC but was asked to leave without interrogation. He added that Bello was accompanied to the EFCC office by his successor, Usman Ododo, the current governor of Kogi State.

"We stress the former governor’s respect for the rule of law and his pursuit of due process in ensuring his fundamental rights are upheld," Michael's statement read. "Although no interrogation took place, HE Alhaji Yahaya Bello has since left the EFCC office, accompanied by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo."

In April, the EFCC declared Bello wanted over allegations of financial crimes amounting to ₦80.2 billion. The anti-graft agency had previously attempted to arrest him at his residence in Wuse, Abuja, but Bello was reportedly whisked away by his successor, Ododo.

Despite several court sessions and adjournments, the former governor has yet to appear before the trial judge. Bello served as Kogi State governor from January 27, 2016, to January 27, 2024, before handing over to Ododo, his fellow All Progressives Congress (APC) member.

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