Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has been detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at its Abuja headquarters following allegations of misappropriating N80.2 billion. EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the development, stating that Bello was taken into custody by the commission’s operatives on Tuesday.
Bello, who had previously ignored multiple invitations, voluntarily presented himself at the EFCC office accompanied by his legal team. His successor, Governor Usman Ododo, who previously accompanied him during an earlier EFCC visit, was notably absent.
EFCC declared Bello wanted in April 2024 over charges of money laundering and financial mismanagement. His arrest marks a significant turn in the ongoing investigation into alleged large-scale financial improprieties during his administration.