The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has refuted allegations of disobeying a court order pertaining to former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello. Amidst debates over whether the EFCC disregarded a court order in the attempted arrest of Bello, the commission issued a press statement to clarify its position.
According to Wilson Uwujaren, the acting Director of Public Affairs for the EFCC, Bello sought refuge in a fundamental rights enforcement action granted by Justice Isa Abdulallahi of the Kogi State High Court. However, Uwujaren emphasized that this order did not negate or override an earlier order issued by the Federal High Court for Bello’s arrest in connection with criminal charges.
Uwujaren clarified that the Kogi State High Court’s order focused on enforcing Bello’s right to personal liberty and freedom of movement, without impeding the Federal High Court’s authority to issue orders related to criminal charges. He stressed that the case before the Federal High Court involves criminal charges distinct from the fundamental rights enforcement action being appealed.
Highlighting the EFCC’s commitment to prosecuting politically exposed individuals, Uwujaren urged Bello to surrender himself and address the charges levied against him. He called on patriotic Nigerians to support the EFCC in its anti-corruption efforts, reaffirming the commission’s unwavering determination to combat corruption.