Yahaya Bello Appears Before EFCC Following Negotiations with President Tinubu

Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has appeared before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday, after a complex negotiation involving his political camp and President Bola Tinubu.

Bello, who had been declared wanted over allegations of money laundering and corruption amounting to ₦80.2 billion, arrived at the EFCC accompanied by notable politicians and APC stalwarts. His appearance is seen as part of President Tinubu’s efforts to reinforce his administration’s anti-corruption stance amid rising public scrutiny.

According to sources, the former governor’s appearance resulted from strategic talks designed to ease tensions surrounding the situation. A statement from Bello’s media office confirmed that he decided to honour the invitation after consulting with his family, legal team, and political allies, insisting that he has “nothing to hide.”

Bello’s appearance follows a series of events where he had previously evaded multiple EFCC invitations and resisted attempts to arrest him at his Abuja residence. Despite an arrest warrant, intervention by his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, prevented immediate action at the time.

Currently, Bello faces a 19-count charge of alleged money laundering, with his trial set to continue on September 25. Sources also reveal that there is mounting pressure on the EFCC to release Bello after his interrogation, citing various political influences and concerns over recent tremors in Abuja as reasons to avoid his detention.

Top insiders indicated that negotiations between Bello’s camp and President Tinubu played a significant role in his eventual decision to face the EFCC.