EFCC Requests INTERPOL to Watchlist Yahaya Bello in North Africa Over Alleged Corruption

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally requested INTERPOL to place Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi State, on its watchlist across several North African countries including Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria.

This decision follows credible intelligence suggesting Bello’s potential evasion of legal proceedings in Nigeria.

Sources within the EFCC disclosed that the agency is exploring various measures to address the situation, including the possibility of apprehending Bello, who is believed to be evading authorities in Kogi State.

Concerns were raised after an attempted departure to Morocco via Cameroon was reportedly thwarted.

The activation of the watchlist coincides with the upcoming court appearance of Bello before a Federal High Court in Abuja scheduled for July 17th.

An EFCC official stated, “We took this step because we suspect he has been delaying his availability for arraignment. We expect Bello to appear in court to defend himself.”

EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, recently engaged with INTERPOL officials in Tunisia to discuss the intelligence on Bello. The agency aims to prevent any attempt by the ex-governor to evade justice, emphasizing the importance of upholding legal processes to maintain integrity.

“We are determined to ensure that Bello faces the charges against him,” the EFCC source added. “The watchlist has been activated with immediate effect, enabling his arrest in any part of North Africa.”

The EFCC’s initiative underscores its commitment to combatting corruption and ensuring accountability among public officials.