In a recent development reported by the Daily Post, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has lauded the proactive stance taken by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in pursuing allegations of financial malfeasance against the immediate past governors of Kogi State, particularly Alhaji Yahaya Bello, over purported involvement in an N80.2 billion fraud scheme.
Commending the EFCC's resolve to hold public officials accountable for their actions, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan also extended appreciation to the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, for the decision to allocate 14 forfeited properties to the government and people of Enugu State. This gesture reflects a commitment to transparent governance and equitable distribution of recovered assets.
Addressing Bello's rationale for evading the EFCC's summons, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stressed the imperative for impartiality and thoroughness in the anti-corruption drive. She emphasized the necessity for the EFCC to widen its scope of investigation to encompass all instances of alleged corruption, thereby dispelling any perceptions of selective targeting or bias.
In response to allegations made by the EFCC Chairman regarding Bello's reluctance to comply with investigative procedures, Senator Natasha underscored the importance of upholding the rule of law and respecting institutional protocols. As a former governor and chief security officer of Kogi State, Bello is reminded of his obligation to abide by Nigeria's legal framework and submit himself to due process.
Expressing her astonishment at Bello's evasion tactics, Senator Natasha reiterated the principle of equitable accountability, emphasizing that adherence to ethical conduct is paramount for public officials. She urged Bello to avail himself of the opportunity to refute allegations and uphold the integrity of Nigeria's judicial system.
In her words: “It’s a well-known fact that ‘he who comes into equity must come with clean hands’. As such, I advise him to honour the invitation and clear his name while he still has the chance.
“I’d also like to take this moment to appreciate the diligence of the EFCC in handling the case so far. No Nigerian is above the law, and therefore the agency must see this case through to the end if they are to gain the trust of both Nigerians and the international community in the fight against corruption,” she said.