On Thursday, activist Deji Adeyanju commended Justice Minister Lateef Fagbemi for calling on former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello to cooperate with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
**EFCC’s Authority and Bello’s Resistance**
Fagbemi emphasized the EFCC’s mandate to summon individuals for questioning, regardless of their position. Despite facing money laundering charges of N80 billion, Bello failed to appear in court, prompting the EFCC to attempt an arrest at his residence. However, police personnel guarding Bello’s premises resisted the arrest.
**Intervention and Obstruction of Justice**
Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo reportedly intervened and facilitated Bello’s departure. Fagbemi condemned this obstruction of justice and urged individuals to cooperate with law enforcement.
**EFCC Declares Bello Wanted**
The EFCC subsequently declared Bello wanted and sought public assistance in locating him. EFCC prosecutor Kemi Pinheiro expressed concern about the interference faced by the agency, but emphasized their professionalism in avoiding violence.
**Possible Military Involvement**
Pinheiro hinted at the possibility of involving the military to apprehend Bello, citing the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015. However, Bello’s lawyer, Abdulwahab Muhammed, claimed that Bello had not violated any court orders and cited ongoing legal challenges.
**Ongoing Investigation and Charges**
The EFCC’s pursuit of Bello stems from years of investigation involving him and his associates. The current charges include money laundering of N80 billion.
**Adeyanju’s Respect for AGF**
Deji Adeyanju praised Fagbemi for his stance, stating that “My respect for AGF Fagbemi will always be intact.”
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