Yahaya Bello: Sowore Slams Nigeria as ‘Haven for Thieves’

The African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Omoyele Sowore, has characterized Nigeria as a haven for thieves.

The famous activist and publisher of SaharaReporters asserted that the nation has devolved into a place where criminal activities are rewarded “boldly, unabashedly, and unashamedly.”

Sowore’s comments followed the arraignment of the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, on charges involving N110 billion.

On Wednesday, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) brought Bello before the Federal Capital Territory High Court, accusing him of embezzling $11 million during his tenure as governor.

Sowore criticized the fact that Bello was afforded substantial security protection upon his arrival at the court for the proceedings.

Taking to his official X handle, Sowore wrote: “Nigeria is a paradise for thieves! Nigeria is a country where crime is rewarded boldly, unabashedly, and unashamedly.

“Here is former Kogi state governor Yahaya Bello, who was accused of stealing N110 billion ($11m) of his meager state resources; for months, Bello refused to surrender to law enforcement officers at the Economic and Financial Commission (EFCC), protected by the hierarchy of the Nigeria Police and the Nigerian secret police known as the DSS when he finally did show up to be “arrested” and was arraigned in court, he was all smiles, beaming from ear to ear, unperturbed.

“He knows nothing will happen; his victims were also there in court to give him moral support and encouragement; they even swore that he would become Nigeria’s next president #Revolutionnow.”

After pleading not guilty on Wednesday, the court adjourned Bello’s trial till December 10 while ordering his remand in EFCC custody.