EFCC Accuses Gov. Ododo of Shielding Yahaya Bello Amid New ₦110 Billion Fraud Charges

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has accused Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, of harboring his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, at the Kogi Government House.

The EFCC claims that Governor Ododo, while protected by immunity as a sitting governor, has become an accomplice in shielding Bello from arrest.

EFCC spokesperson, Wilson Uwujaren, made the allegations during an interview with Arise TV on Thursday, stating that Bello has evaded justice and failed to appear before the Federal High Court in Abuja as ordered by Justice Emeka Nwite.

Uwujaren also criticized Bello’s appearance at the EFCC car park on September 18, calling it a “media stunt” designed to deceive the public.

“Even before he arrived at the EFCC premises, media reports were already circulating that he had presented himself and was detained. This indicated a premeditated plan beyond mere compliance,” Uwujaren explained.

He further accused Governor Ododo of obstructing EFCC operations, revealing that during a previous attempt to arrest Bello, the governor facilitated his escape from the Government House in Lokoja.

Uwujaren clarified that there is no plea bargain or deal in place to allow Bello to return alleged stolen funds in exchange for leniency, stressing that the EFCC does not engage in such negotiations.

The federal government has filed 16 new charges against Yahaya Bello, accusing him of criminal breach of trust involving ₦110.4 billion, intensifying scrutiny of his financial dealings. The case is set to proceed in the Federal High Court, Abuja.