Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has honored an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after months of back-and-forth and a previous attempt by the agency to arrest him.

In a statement released on Wednesday by Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, it was revealed that Bello accepted the EFCC invitation "after due consultations with his family, legal team, and political allies."

The statement highlighted Bello's respect for the rule of law and emphasized that his actions were intended to protect his fundamental rights and ensure due process. "The case has been before a competent court of jurisdiction, and Alhaji Yahaya Bello has been duly represented by his legal team at every hearing. It is important for the former governor to now honor the EFCC's invitation to clear his name, as he has nothing to hide or fear," the statement said.

Bello, a staunch supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and its efforts to drive sustainable economic development, also reiterated his support for the fight against corruption in Nigeria. The statement noted that he was the first governor in Kogi State to implement an anti-corruption mechanism aimed at preventing graft and ensuring state resources were used for the benefit of the people.

According to Michael, Bello was accompanied to the EFCC Headquarters by several high-profile Nigerians. He expressed hope that the Commission would remain professional and respect Bello's fundamental rights as a Nigerian citizen. "Details of his engagement with the EFCC operatives will be shared later," the statement concluded.

This development follows the adjournment of Bello’s alleged money laundering case by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja to September 25. The EFCC had filed a 19-count charge against Bello, accusing him of laundering ₦80 billion. Despite multiple invitations and court summons, Bello had previously declined to appear before the EFCC or attend court hearings.