Presidency Advises Yahaya Bello to Submit to EFCC, Obtain Legal Representation

Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on information and strategy, has urged Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, to surrender to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and seek legal counsel in response to the agency’s declaration of Bello as wanted for alleged money laundering totaling ₦80 billion.

Following the EFCC’s declaration, which stemmed from Bello’s absence at a court hearing and the agency’s previous attempt to arrest him at his Abuja residence, Onanuga emphasized the importance of Bello presenting himself to the EFCC and securing competent legal representation.

The EFCC’s decision to lay siege to Bello’s residence underscores the seriousness of the allegations against him, prompting his successor, Usman Ododo, to intervene and remove him from the location.

In response to a post on the EFCC’s official X account declaring Bello wanted, Onanuga emphasized the futility of evading the EFCC’s pursuit, advising Bello to face the situation head-on and engage qualified legal counsel.