The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has strongly condemned the evasion of arrest by former Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, amidst serious allegations of money laundering amounting to N80 billion, breach of public trust, and related offenses reported by the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the provocation undertaken by the current Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Ododo.
This condemnation follows reports of Governor Ododo of Kogi State allegedly shielding and aiding Mr. Bello to evade arrest at his Abuja residence, purportedly under the guise of personal immunity granted the governor by the Constitution. The action of Governor Ododo is criminal and stands condemned. The constitutional immunity of a governor is not transferable, but we commend the EFCC for its professionalism in the face of provocation from the Kogi Governor.
In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, HEDA expressed deep concern over Mr. Bello’s actions, which set a dangerous precedent and undermine the rule of law. The anti-corruption group emphasized the necessity for all individuals, regardless of their status, to be subject to rule of law and held accountable for any alleged wrongdoing.
“We commend the Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, for urging the former Governor to surrender himself to the EFCC, emphasizing the importance of respecting authority and the power of agencies like the EFCC to carry out their duties professionally and without interference,” Suraju stated.
“Despite reported provocations by Governor Ododo’s security team and protesters, the EFCC has demonstrated commendable professionalism in upholding the law and pursuing justice without escalation into chaos. HEDA emphasized the need for all public officials to support and uphold law-abiding behavior in the discharge of their duties and exercise of power.
Furthermore, HEDA called upon the judiciary to carefully consider the issuance of restraining orders that could potentially shield politically exposed persons evading justice. The organization stressed the importance of transparent and impartial legal processes to ensure that justice is served without undue influence or obstruction.
HEDA Resource Centre urged relevant authorities to swiftly address this alarming situation and uphold the principles of accountability and the rule of law. EFCC is further charged to continue in its strive to hold all public officers to highest account, irrespective of their post, connections, affiliation and connection.
