The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has uncovered plans by former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to flee Nigeria for Morocco via Cameroon amidst allegations of an ₦80.2 billion fraud.
Yahaya Bello, who is currently evading arrest, faces a 19-count charge including money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds totaling ₦80.2 billion. Despite his denials, Bello has failed to appear before Justice Emeka Nwite on multiple scheduled dates.
On June 27, Bello again failed to appear before the Federal High Court, marking his fifth absence following previous no-shows on April 18, April 23, May 10, and June 13. Instead of attending court, Bello’s lawyers have requested a case transfer to the court’s division in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital.
With an impending court appearance on July 17, the EFCC has placed Bello on a watchlist in Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria.
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The commission has requested INTERPOL in these North African countries to monitor Bello closely, as they seek to prevent him from escaping justice.
EFCC Chairman Mr. Ola Olukoyede has personally delivered a request for INTERPOL’s assistance during a session on illicit financial flows in Tunisia.
In a related matter, the EFCC has challenged internet celebrity Ismaila Mustapha, also known as Mompha, to substantiate his corruption allegations against EFCC operatives.
Mompha, facing trial for conspiracy to launder funds and other charges, has accused the EFCC of corruption. The commission described these claims as “malicious and unsubstantiated” and invited Mompha to present any evidence of corruption he might have.
