EFCC: Yahaya Bello Remains Innocent as ₦80.2bn

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reiterated that former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, remains innocent until proven guilty, stressing that his ongoing trial does not bar him from political ambitions.

The anti-graft agency made this clarification amid public criticism trailing Bello’s reported intention to contest the Kogi Central Senatorial seat in 2027.

Speaking on Monday during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show, the EFCC Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwuajeren, explained that Bello’s case is still before the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, and that only the court has the constitutional authority to determine guilt or innocence.

Bello is currently standing trial before Justice Emeka Nwite over allegations of diversion and misappropriation of Kogi State funds amounting to ₦80.2 billion during his tenure as governor.

Uwuajeren noted that criminal prosecution in Nigeria is a process that requires time, involving the presentation of witnesses and documentary evidence, all of which are currently ongoing in court.

“As we speak, the trial is still ongoing. We are presenting witnesses and evidence. It is not the EFCC that will decide the matter; it is the court,” he said.

He emphasized that under the Nigerian Constitution, any individual facing trial is presumed innocent until proven guilty, adding that Bello’s activities or standing within his political party have no connection with the charges filed against him.

According to him, the EFCC remains focused solely on its mandate as a law enforcement agency and has no interest in partisan politics.

“Whatever is happening to him within his party is purely party affairs. EFCC is not a political party. We are not interested in politics; we are interested in faithfully prosecuting the charges before the court,” Uwuajeren stated.

He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served for both the prosecution and the defence, insisting that the case is being handled properly and transparently.

“Our responsibility to Nigerians is to remain faithful to the charges we have filed and to prosecute them diligently. Nothing has gone amiss, and we remain committed to the rule of law,” he added.

The EFCC urged the public to allow the judicial process to run its course, noting that the final outcome of the case rests solely with the court.