HEDA Slams Tactics of Ex-Kogi Gov Yahaya Bello and Gov Ododo's Complicity in Dodging Arrest Amidst Charges of Money Laundering

Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, is facing allegations from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) that include laundering funds up to the sum of N80 billion, abusing public trust, among other charges.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has vehemently spoken out against the tactics employed by Yahaya Bello, the past governor of Kogi State, to avoid capture in light of allegations of corruption against him.

• The EFCC has leveled accusations against Bello, including money laundering involving a sum of N80 billion, the violation of public trust, among other crimes.

HEDA has also voiced its disapproval of the involvement of Kogi State's current governor, Mr. Ododo, in aiding Bello's attempts to dodge arrest.

Following are reports that Governor Ododo of Kogi State has been protecting and assisting Mr. Bello in his attempts to avoid capture from law enforcement at his residence in Abuja, citing his personal immunity as given by the Constitution as a shield.

"HEDA finds Governor Ododo's actions reprehensible and criminal. A governor's constitutional immunity is not meant to be transferable, however, we acknowledge the restraint and professionalism exhibited by the EFCC despite provocation by the Kogi State governor," stated HEDA.

HEDA, through its Chairman Olanrewaju Suraju, released a statement on Saturday expressing grave concerns about Mr. Bello's conduct, "which creates a perilous precedent and erodes the principles of legal authority".

The organization stressed the importance of everyone, regardless of their rank, being accountable under the law and for any accusations of misconduct to be addressed.

"We applaud the Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, for encouraging the ex-governor to present himself to the EFCC, highlighting the significance of adherence to legal authorities and the capacity of bodies like the EFCC to perform their duties effectively and without obstruction," Suraju remarked.

"Amid challenges posed by Governor Ododo's security detail and demonstrators, the EFCC has maintained notable professionalism in enforcing the law and seeking justice without resulting in disorder.

"HEDA emphasizes the responsibility of all governmental officials in promoting and maintaining lawful behavior in carrying out their roles and utilizing their authority."

Moreover, HEDA urges the judiciary to carefully reevaluate the provision of restraining orders that may inadvertently protect individuals of political influence from facing justice. The group insists on the necessity for a transparent and unbiased judicial process to ensure justice prevails without any external influence or hindrance.

HEDA Resource Centre is calling on the appropriate bodies to promptly address this worrying issue and to adhere to the values of accountability and legal integrity.

"EFCC is further encouraged to persist in their efforts to hold public servants accountable, regardless of their position, affiliations, and networks," Suraju concluded.