The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ola Olukoyede, has again insisted that he has kept his promise to personally ensure the prosecution of the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, over alleged financial crimes.
Olukoyede made this clear during an interview on Sunday Politics, a programme aired by Channels Television. His comments come amid public debate and criticism over the handling and pace of corruption cases involving powerful political figures in Nigeria.
Speaking during the interview, the EFCC chairman described some of the allegations against the former governor as deeply disturbing, especially given the economic situation of Kogi State during Bello’s time in office.
According to Olukoyede, the EFCC uncovered evidence showing that a sitting governor allegedly moved public funds directly from the state government into a bureau de change and used the money to pay school fees for his child abroad.
“A sitting governor, because he knew he was about to leave office, moved money directly from government to a bureau de change and used it to pay his child’s school fees in advance, $720,000,” Olukoyede said.
He expressed shock at the alleged action, noting that Kogi State is one of the poorer states in the country and has struggled with salary payments, infrastructure, and basic services.
“In a poor state like Kogi, you want me to close my eyes to that under the excuse that I am being used? Being used by who at this stage of my life?” he asked.
Olukoyede’s remarks appeared to be a response to claims by some supporters of the former governor, who have alleged that the EFCC’s actions are politically motivated. The EFCC chairman rejected such claims and said his duty is to protect public funds, regardless of who is involved.
The EFCC boss also reminded Nigerians of a strong public statement he made in April 2024, when he vowed to resign as chairman of the commission if Yahaya Bello was not prosecuted.
“At that time, I said clearly that if I do not personally oversee the completion of the investigation regarding Yahaya Bello, I will tender my resignation as chairman of the EFCC,” he recalled.
That statement drew national attention and raised expectations that the case would be handled with seriousness and transparency. Several civil society groups and anti-corruption advocates welcomed the promise, seeing it as a test of the EFCC’s independence.
Addressing concerns about whether that promise has been fulfilled, Olukoyede said the facts speak for themselves.
“Have I not fulfilled that promise? Is Yahaya Bello not being prosecuted? The case is in court,” he said.
He explained that once a case is taken before a court of law, the EFCC’s role is limited. According to him, the commission is responsible for investigating allegations and filing charges, but it does not control how fast the courts move or what judgment is eventually delivered.
“I have three cases against Yahaya Bello. Am I the judge who will decide conviction? I have done my work and fulfilled my mandate,” Olukoyede added.
Yahaya Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, is currently facing multiple charges before different courts in Abuja. One of the major cases involves a 16-count charge bordering on alleged criminal breach of trust and property fraud amounting to N110 billion.
In that case, Bello is standing trial alongside two co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu. The EFCC alleges that the accused persons were involved in the unlawful diversion and use of public funds meant for the state.
In a separate case before the Federal High Court, the former governor is also facing a 19-count charge related to alleged fraud and money laundering involving N80.2 billion. The EFCC claims the funds were moved through various accounts and entities to conceal their source.
The legal battles mark a dramatic fall from power for Bello, who was once one of the youngest governors in the country and a prominent figure within the ruling party.
The controversy around the case intensified in April 2024 when the EFCC declared Bello wanted over alleged financial crimes estimated at about N80 billion. The move sparked heated political debate, with some accusing the anti-graft agency of selective justice, while others praised it for taking bold action.
Bello later turned himself in to authorities after weeks of public tension and legal drama. His arrest and arraignment were seen by many Nigerians as a major test of the government’s commitment to fighting corruption.
The EFCC chairman said cases involving high-profile individuals are often complex and time-consuming because of the volume of documents, number of witnesses, and legal challenges involved.
He urged Nigerians to allow the courts to do their work and warned against judging the case based on emotions or political loyalty.
Corruption cases involving former governors have historically been difficult in Nigeria, with many dragging on for years without conclusion. This has led to public frustration and loss of confidence in the justice system.
However, Olukoyede said the EFCC under his leadership is determined to strengthen investigations and ensure that cases are properly presented in court.
He also stressed that the commission does not target individuals based on party affiliation or personal differences.
“The EFCC will not look away when public funds are involved. Our duty is to Nigerians, not to politicians,” he said.