The Chief of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate removal of all police personnel assigned to the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, who is currently facing legal challenges.
This directive was communicated through a police internal message that was obtained by our reporter on Friday.
The memo, identified by the reference number: “CB:4001/DOPS/PMF/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.48/ 34,” stated, “IG has ordered the withdrawal of all policemen attached to His Excellency and former Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.”
It further instructed, “Acknowledge compliance and treat with utmost importance. Please, above, for your information and strict compliance.”
Prior to this development, the Nigerian Immigration Service had already put the former governor on its surveillance list following an announcement by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, which declared him wanted in relation to a purported money laundering case involving N80.2bn.
An NIS document, which was reviewed by The PUNCH and dated April 18, 2024, noted, “I am directed to inform you that the above-named person has been placed on the watch list.”
The circular highlighted that Bello is under prosecution at the Federal High Court Abuja for conspiracy, breach of trust, and money laundering, as referenced in the letter Ref; CR; 3000/EFCC/LS/EGCS.1/ TE/Vide/1/279 dated April 18, 2024.
It also stated, “If seen at any entry or exit point, he should be arrested and referred to the Director of Investigation or contact 08036226329/07039617304 for further action.”
Furthermore, the EFCC had previously urged the public to provide any information on Bello’s whereabouts to aid his capture, planning to formally charge him at a Federal High Court in Abuja.
After obtaining an arrest warrant from the Federal High Court in Abuja, the EFCC scheduled Bello, along with Ali Bello, Dauda Suliman, and Abdulsalam Hudu, for arraignment before Justice Emeka Nwite on 19 counts of money laundering.
However, an attempt by the EFCC to detain Bello at his residence in Abuja was disrupted when a contingent of armed “Special Forces” and police officers intervened.
Reports from OduNews indicated that the current Governor of Kogi State, Usman Ododo, played a role in thwarting the arrest by having his security team swiftly escort Bello away from the scene in the official governor’s vehicle.
