Political Jamboree: The EFCC vs. Former Governors »

By Hamza Yakubu

The recent wave of activities initiated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) targeting the former governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has sparked mixed reactions among the public. While some individuals are celebrating and expressing joy over the ongoing legal proceedings against Bello, it is important to maintain a sense of perspective regarding this issue.

It is worth noting that the situation between the EFCC and Yahaya Bello is not an isolated case. In fact, there have been numerous instances where former state governors across Nigeria have faced corruption allegations and investigations by the EFCC. These cases often involve accusations of financial impropriety and misappropriation of public funds.

A quick review of EFCC’s history reveals that a total of 31 former state governors have been investigated for corruption, with 11 of them taken to court. Despite these efforts, only two convictions have been secured, and both individuals were later granted pardons.

To elucidate further, prominent figures like Rochas Okorocha, Theodore Orji, Abdulaziz Yari, Prince Abubakar Audu, Willie Obiano, Tanko Almakura, Ali Modu Sheriff, Abdulfatah Ahmed, and Godswill Akpabio are among the long list of former governors who have been embroiled in legal battles with the EFCC due to allegations of financial misconduct.

Therefore, while the ongoing scrutiny of Yahaya Bello by the EFCC is of public interest, it is crucial to remember that he is not the first former governor to face such allegations. The prevailing jubilations and excessive focus on this specific case should be approached with a level of caution and awareness of the broader context of corruption investigations involving high-profile individuals in public office. So, while we follow up on the proceedings of the case, the charade of jubilation by some suspecting person needs to take a leave.