TheCable

A group known as Confluence of Patriots (CP) has asked the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) not to be deterred in its battle against corruption.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the executive committee of the group urged the anti-graft agency not to be dissuaded by the “antics” of Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi. 

Corruption allegations have trailed the former governor since his tenure elapsed on January 27.

Bello allegedly paid $760,910 in advance as school fees for five of his children, from the coffers of the Kogi state government.

On April 17, EFCC operatives laid siege to Bello’s Abuja residence in an attempt to arrest him over an alleged N80.2 billion fraud.

While the operatives were at the house, Usman Ododo, governor of Kogi, arrived at the property and reportedly whisked Bello away.

The EFCC has since declared Bello wanted, with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) placing the ex-governor on a watchlist.

The group alleged that Bello’s administration was “characterised” by several “financial irregularities”. 

CP said the state did not witness significant infrastructural development during Bello’s administration.

The group said it “stands resolute in solidarity” with the EFCC to probe the eight years in which Bello served as governor.

CP also asked security agencies to investigate allegations of human rights abuses during Bello’s administration.

“We urge the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and indeed the general public not to be dissuaded by the various antics of the former Governor,” the statement signed by Abdulwahab Omeiza, the group’s secretary, reads.