According to Punch Newspaper, Prominent human rights lawyer Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, asserted on Wednesday that no legal impediment could prevent the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from prosecuting former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, over allegations of embezzling N84 billion from state funds. This statement came in response to claims by Bello that the EFCC had violated a court order by attempting to arrest him regarding the alleged theft.
Falana further criticized the actions of police officers who interfered with the EFCC’s efforts to arrest Bello, labeling it a “grave criminal offence.” He urged the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, to act decisively. According to Falana, these officers should be immediately withdrawn from Bello’s residence and charged with obstruction of justice to maintain the integrity of the law enforcement process.
The legal clarity provided by Falana underscores the principle that former governors are not exempt from prosecution after their terms end, challenging Bello’s defense against the EFCC’s charges. His statements highlight ongoing tensions between law enforcement agencies and underscore the challenges in upholding accountability within Nigeria’s political landscape.
Because of the foregoing, the police officers who prevented the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission from arresting the suspect have committed a grave criminal offence. The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun should withdraw the said police officers from the private residence of Mr. Bello without any delay and have them charged for obstruction of justice,” he said.
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