EFCC Issues Final Ultimatum to Yahaya Bello Over ₦80.2 Billion Money Laundering Charges

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a final ultimatum to former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, demanding his appearance in court to face charges of alleged money laundering amounting to ₦80.2 billion.

A reliable source within the commission disclosed that Bello has been directed to appear in court on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.

This comes after previous attempts by the former governor to surrender to the EFCC were rejected due to concerns over the sincerity of his intentions. The agency revealed it had gathered intelligence suggesting that Bello’s motives might undermine the integrity of the commission’s operations.

Upon his arrival at the EFCC headquarters, Bello was reportedly in communication with certain officers who misled him, further complicating his efforts to surrender. The EFCC, however, emphasized that he faces a 19-count charge of money laundering and that any attempts to avoid legal proceedings would not be tolerated.

“The EFCC is a highly professional agency with strict protocols regarding the surrender, investigation, and prosecution of suspects,” a source within the commission explained. “Bello presented himself in a manner unbecoming of a suspect in a serious legal matter, and intelligence suggested his motives could jeopardize his trial.”

The commission has now given him one final chance to appear in court and enter a plea, warning that further delays could worsen his situation.

“His last opportunity is to present himself in court, which is the only course of action that can assist his case,” the source concluded.