The Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive to withdraw all police officers assigned to the embattled former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.
This order, communicated via a police wireless message, underscores a pivotal move amid mounting legal challenges faced by Bello.
The directive, bearing reference number “CB:4001/DOPS/PMF/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.48/34,” explicitly states the withdrawal of police personnel from Bello’s security detail. The message emphasises strict compliance, indicating a notable shift in Bello’s security arrangements.
This development follows the Nigerian Immigration Service’s decision to place Bello on its watchlist, further complicating his legal predicament. The service, through a circular dated April 18, 2024, and signed by Assistant Comptroller of Immigration DS Umar, revealed Bello’s inclusion on the watchlist due to ongoing legal proceedings.
Bello faces allegations of involvement in money laundering amounting to N80.2 billion, with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) actively pursuing the case. The EFCC had earlier declared Bello wanted, urging the public to provide any relevant information regarding his whereabouts.
Efforts to apprehend Bello escalated recently when the EFCC obtained a warrant for his arrest from the Federal High Court in Abuja.
However, attempts to execute the warrant faced resistance when armed individuals, purportedly “Special Forces” accompanied by Nigeria Police Force officers, thwarted the EFCC’s operation at Bello’s Abuja residence.
It’s reported that Kogi State’s current Governor, Usman Ododo, intervened in the situation, with his security team facilitating Bello’s departure from the scene in the governor’s vehicle.
These developments underscore the intensifying legal and security challenges confronting Yahaya Bello as he navigates through a tumultuous period of legal scrutiny and public attention.
