Yahaya Bello: Hundreds Of Protesters Storm Lagos Streets Against EFCC

On Saturday, hundreds of human rights activists marched through Lagos, denouncing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) perceived authoritarian approach to law enforcement.

Over 120 Anti-Corruption Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and their supporters gathered to express their concern over the recent standoff between the EFCC and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. They argued that the EFCC’s actions suggested a broader agenda beyond its constitutional mandate.

According to the activists, the EFCC never issued an invitation letter to ex-Gov Bello. They asserted that the accusations of evading arrest were therefore unfounded, as Bello had a valid court order preventing his arrest and harassment.

They strongly condemned the threat of military action by an EFCC lawyer, stating that such threats in a courtroom violated its sanctity.

Debo Adeniran, Chairman of the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL), emphasized that the disregard for the rule of law extended beyond Yahaya Bello’s case. “We don’t know who the next victim will be,” he said.

The activists urged the Federal Government to prioritize obeying court orders and initiating legal processes to vacate them. They warned against instigating anarchy, highlighting the importance of adhering to the rule of law.

Despite having supported the EFCC in the past, the CSOs maintained that the commission was overstepping its authority in this case. They expressed concern that the EFCC’s actions were creating a climate of lawlessness.

“Our intervention today is to ensure that both the EFCC and the suspect receive justice,” the CSOs stated. They urged the government to reconsider its approach, warning that the threat of military intervention in a civil case was dangerous and could lead to unintended consequences.

The activists vowed to continue their fight for justice in Yahaya Bello’s case, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to the rule of law.

The press conference was attended by prominent activists such as Debo Adeniran, Sina Loremikan, Declan Ihekhaire, Gbenga Soloki, Ochiaga Ohaneze, Funmi Jolade, Kola Abe, Ologun Ayodeji, Femi Lawson, and Gbenga Ganzallo. CONTINUE READING

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