From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja
Ogbuefi Gerald, a prominent youth stakeholder of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed concerns over the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) handling of the case against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
Gerald believes that the extraordinary tactics deployed by the EFCC to bring Bello to justice over allegations of money laundering involving over N80 billion may be politically motivated. He urges President Tinubu to intervene and ensure that the EFCC adheres to due process in accordance with the court’s orders.
Despite Bello’s efforts in ensuring Tinubu’s victory in the 2023 elections, Gerald notes public insinuations that Bello’s current situation may be due to his stance during the APC presidential primaries, where he contested against Tinubu. Gerald argues that Bello performed better than other APC governors in delivering the state for the party and suggests that his travails may be orchestrated by political enemies of the APC and the Tinubu-led administration.
In a recent interview with Trust TV, Gerald highlighted the concerning actions taken by the EFCC, including the siege on Bello’s Abuja residence, threats to involve the military, and the withdrawal of his security details. These actions, despite a restraining court order, suggest that the EFCC is determined to arrest Bello at all costs.
Gerald urges President Tinubu to prevail on the EFCC to respect the rule of law. He emphasizes that the EFCC’s disregard for due process is concerning and damaging to its reputation.
“What is happening is beyond embarrassing,” Gerald stated. “As an APC youth stakeholder, watching all these happen simply explains why, aside from Bobrisky, you can count how many people the EFCC has defeated in court by not following the rule of law.”
Gerald further questions the lack of evidence against Bello and the EFCC’s actions in light of the court order. He emphasizes that Bello has a valid court order and that the EFCC should have waited before attempting to arrest him.
Responding to questions about the potential political motives behind Bello’s case, Gerald believes this is the right time for the President to intervene and call the EFCC to order. He highlights the public perception that the case is politically motivated, with some suggesting that certain individuals within the Presidency are targeting Bello.
Gerald emphasizes that Bello delivered better results for Tinubu in the 2023 elections than other APC governors who asked him to step down during the primaries. He argues that Bello’s unwavering support for Tinubu and his contributions to the party’s victory should be acknowledged.