Olukayode Egbetokun, the Inspector General of Police, has withdrawn all police officers assigned to Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State.
The withdrawal order was sent via a police radio transmission.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) proclaimed Bello wanted on April 18, after his absence from the federal high court in Abuja “stalled his arraignment.”
The document with reference number “CB:4001/DOPS/PMF/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.48/3434 partly reads, “IG has ordered the withdrawal of all policemen attached to His Excellency and former Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.
“Acknowledge compliance and treat it with the utmost importance. Please, above, for your information and strict compliance.”
According to a news report, the Nigerian Immigration Service had earlier placed the former governor on its watchlist after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) declared him wanted in connection with an alleged case of money laundering to the tune of N80.2 billion.
According to a statement signed by DS Umar, assistant comptroller of immigration, on behalf of Kemi Nandap, comptroller-general of the NIS, the agency said, “I am directed to inform you that the above-named person has been placed on the watch list.
“Suffice to mention that the subject is being prosecuted before the Federal High Court Abuja for conspiracy, breach of trust, and money laundering via letter Ref. CR. 3000/EFCC/LS/EGCS.1/TE/Vide/1/279 dated April 18, 2024.
“If seen at any entry or exit point, he should be arrested and referred to the Director of Investigation or contact 08036226329 or 07039617304 for further action.”
The presidency had asked Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, to submit himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and get a good lawyer to defend himself.
Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, announced this on his X account on Thursday.
Reacting to a post declaring Bello wanted on the EFCC’s X account, Onanuga stated that the former Kogi governor should submit himself and hire a good lawyer.
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“Yahaya Bello, where will you run to? You should submit yourself to the EFCC and get a good lawyer,” he said.
