Request to Prosecute Yahaya Bello by PDP Chieftain Sent to EFCC

In Kogi State, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Austin Okai, has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to take action against the former governor of the state, Yahaya Bello, for alleged financial misconduct.

Okai, who ran for the House of Representatives in the 2023 elections in the Dekina/Bassa constituency, made this plea in a statement released in Abuja on Sunday.

He emphasized the importance of not overlooking the struggles of civil servants dealing with the consequences of financial mismanagement, despite the challenging task of governing the state.

Recalling a court order by Justice Tijani Ringim on August 31, 2021, to freeze government accounts following an EFCC application, Okai highlighted the agency’s allegations of unlawful financial activities linked to a specific bank account.

Okai mentioned that the EFCC’s legal counsel, A. O. Mohammed, requested the court’s intervention to prevent further depletion of funds in the mentioned account, emphasizing the need to safeguard the allocated funds for government expenses.

Regarding the denial of allegations by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo, Okai stressed the importance of prioritizing the welfare of Kogi state workers over protecting any individual, including Bello.

Regarding an ongoing corruption case implicating the former governor, Okai emphasized the need for collective support for EFCC’s investigation and pursuit of justice against Bello.

Highlighting the significance of accountability and transparency in governance, Okai called on all citizens to demand responsible stewardship of public resources from those in positions of authority.

He emphasized that ensuring the integrity of leaders and the commitment of citizens to upholding the rule of law are vital for the future well-being of Kogi State.

On the other hand, the Kogi State Government refuted the corruption allegations against the former governor, attributing them to political motives aimed at tarnishing Bello’s image.

The Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, defended the administration’s anti-corruption stance inherited from Bello’s tenure, stating that the state’s finances were appropriately managed.