Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) reportedly surrounded the Kogi State Government Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, on Wednesday night in an attempt to arrest former Governor Yahaya Bello.
The incident, which involved sporadic gunfire, has drawn condemnation from Bello’s camp.
In a statement issued by Bello’s Director of Media, Ohiare Michael, he criticised the EFCC’s actions, describing the operation as unnecessary and politically motivated. He also urged Nigerians to hold the anti-graft agency responsible if any harm comes to the former governor.
The confrontation followed Bello’s earlier voluntary visit to the EFCC headquarters, where he was reportedly told to leave and return at a later date.
The statement reads: “It has come to our notice that individuals suspected to be EFCC operatives are currently stationed around the Kogi Government Lodge, Asokoro, attempting to forcefully arrest former Governor Yahaya Bello. They were shooting sporadically.
“We want to make it clear that the EFCC should be held accountable if anything happens to him.”
Michael further expressed frustration with the EFCC’s actions, claiming that Bello had made himself available for questioning earlier in the day, but no inquiries were made. He added that the attempted arrest reinforces suspicions that the agency is engaged in political persecution rather than focusing on its anti-corruption mandate.
“We will keep Nigerians updated on developments,” the statement concluded.
