Egbira Group Accuses EFCC of Ethnic Bias in Yahaya Bello's Case, Calls for Presidential Intervention »

The Egbira Voice of Nigeria has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of conducting a politically and ethnically motivated prosecution against former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello. In a strongly worded press briefing on Tuesday September 24, 2024, the group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, expressing concerns over what they described as an orchestrated ethnic agenda aimed at eliminating Bello.

The group alleges that the EFCC’s actions are rooted in long-standing ethnic tensions within Kogi State, with Yahaya Bello being targeted for disrupting the decades-long political dominance of the Igala ethnic group. They claim that Bello’s emergence as governor in 2016, representing the Egbira people, marked a significant shift in power dynamics in the state, which has led to persistent efforts by Igala elites to undermine him.

Key figures within the Igala community, including former Deputy Governor Simon Achuba and senior lawyer Jubrin Okutepa (SAN), were accused of leading a campaign to pressure the EFCC into prosecuting Bello. The group further alleged that Okutepa’s involvement in filing charges against Bello on behalf of the EFCC is a direct attempt to use legal means to further an ethnic agenda.

The Egbira Voice of Nigeria detailed what they perceive as a series of questionable actions by the EFCC, including the agency’s refusal to attend to Bello when he voluntarily appeared at their office, only to later attempt to arrest him at the Kogi Government Lodge in Abuja. The group contrasted this treatment with how the EFCC received other political figures, suggesting a double standard.

The press statement also mentioned the former governor’s achievements during his tenure, including efforts to unite the state’s various ethnic groups, infrastructure development, and empowering women and youth. They stressed that despite his contributions, Bello continues to face persecution due to his ethnic background and the political shift he represented.

The group warned that the continued targeting of Yahaya Bello by the EFCC could have broader implications, potentially damaging the credibility of the anti-graft agency and undermining the current administration’s efforts at national unity. They also threatened to involve international organizations and civil society groups if the situation is not addressed.

The statement concluded with a plea to President Tinubu, urging him to monitor the actions of the EFCC and ensure that Yahaya Bello is treated fairly, emphasizing that his life may be at risk if left in the hands of the anti-corruption body.

The sstatement was signed by Dr. Kenneth S S Enebe, Dr. Nasir Onujabe, Alh. Ibrahim Anas, Hon. Abdul Kokori, Mal. Usman Jamiu Jamdalla, Alh. Nuhu Shaibu.