“Yahaya Bello’s Brush with the Law: A Tale of Government Rascality”

By Milcah Tanimu

The recent standoff between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello has spotlighted a concerning trend of governmental rascality. In a democracy, such behavior is incongruous with the esteemed positions held by public officials.

The EFCC’s pursuit of Bello, stemming from allegations of misappropriating a staggering N80 billion belonging to Kogi State, underscores the gravity of the situation. Despite the expiration of his tenure and loss of immunity, Bello has evaded the EFCC’s attempts to bring him to justice, preferring the sanctuary of the Kogi State Government House.

The recent incident in Abuja, where EFCC operatives attempted to arrest Bello, only to be thwarted by his successor, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, paints a distressing picture of law enforcement’s impotence in the face of governmental resistance. This brazen display of defiance undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust in the justice system.

Bello’s alleged involvement in financial crimes, including laundering a staggering N80.2 billion, demands accountability and swift legal action. However, the EFCC’s apparent inability to apprehend him raises questions about its effectiveness and resolve in combating corruption at the highest levels.

Comparisons to previous cases, such as the EFCC’s siege on former Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha’s residence, highlight inconsistencies in law enforcement’s approach to gubernatorial non-compliance. The agency’s failure to apprehend Bello undermines its credibility and reinforces perceptions of selective justice.

As the EFCC intensifies its efforts to combat corruption, it must demonstrate impartiality and resolve in pursuing all allegations of financial misconduct, regardless of the individuals involved. The Nigerian public deserves transparency and accountability from its leaders, and the EFCC plays a vital role in upholding these principles.

Moving forward, the EFCC must redouble its efforts to arrest and prosecute Yahaya Adoza Bello, sending a clear message that no one is above the law. Failure to do so would further erode public confidence in the justice system and perpetuate a culture of impunity among government officials.