The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has given former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello a final ultimatum to defend himself against allegations of N80.2 billion in money laundering.
An impeccable source informed Vanguard in Abuja on Monday that the agency has directed Bello to appear in court on Wednesday.
According to the highly-placed source, Bello’s attempt to surrender was rejected due to concerns that his actions were intended to compromise the commission’s operational procedures.
The EFCC stated that its investigation uncovered intelligence suggesting Bello’s motives were not genuine.
Bello was said to be communicating with some officers upon his arrival at the Commission’s premises, who misled him, thus throwing his surrender efforts overboard.
The agency insisted that Bello faces a 19-count charge of money laundering, which it believes he attempted to circumvent with his surrender bid.
The source said, “The EFCC is a highly professional agency with strict guidelines regarding the arrest, bail, surrender of wanted suspects, investigation, and prosecution. He presented himself like an emperor in an environment where he is a suspect.
“Additionally, the Commission encountered intelligence suggesting that his motives for surrender could jeopardize his trial.
“These factors led Ola Olukoyede to act swiftly and reject his contrived surrender offer. The only remaining opportunity for him is to appear in court on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, to enter his plea.
“The Commission is not concerned about his maneuvers because charges have already been filed against him, and his delay tactics could only worsen his case. His last opportunity is to present himself in court, which is the only action that can help his case.”
