Former Governor Yahaya Bello Resists Arrest as EFCC Raids Kogi Lodge; Gunfire Ensues During Standoff

In a dramatic nighttime raid on Wednesday, September 19, 2024, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) made an attempt to apprehend former Governor Yahaya Bello at the Kogi State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja. During the operation, Yahaya Bello resisted arrest, resulting in a tense standoff between security forces and EFCC operatives. The confrontation quickly escalated, with gunfire reported as both sides clashed.

The EFCC’s interest in Yahaya Bello resisting arrest stems from allegations that the former governor was involved in a large-scale money laundering scheme, amounting to N80.2 billion. The commission had filed a 19-count charge against him in relation to the case. Despite this, efforts to detain him on Wednesday night were unsuccessful as the former governor managed to evade capture. He is believed to have left the premises alongside Governor Usman Ododo, though his current location remains unknown.

In a statement released by Bello’s media team, led by Director Ohiare Michael, they criticized the EFCC’s actions, describing the raid as an unnecessary and forceful attempt to arrest Yahaya Bello, who resisted arrest. According to the statement, Bello had voluntarily reported to the EFCC’s office earlier that day but was told to return at a later date. The surprise raid on the lodge, therefore, came as a shock and was labeled “Gestapo-like” by his team.

Michael’s statement went on to emphasize that Yahaya Bello resisted arrest only because the EFCC’s actions were seen as politically motivated. “This unnecessary show of force highlights a disturbing trend where political battles are fought under the guise of anti-corruption efforts,” the statement read. The team further cautioned that the EFCC would be held accountable if any harm came to the former governor.

At the time of this report, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale had not provided any official comments regarding the raid or the allegations against Bello. The situation has left many questioning the motives behind the operation and the unfolding legal battle between Bello and the EFCC.