In an exclusive interview, Bolaji Adebiyi, a media assistant to Senator Abubakar Bagudu, urges former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to step into the spotlight and address the serious allegations surrounding him. Known as the “White Lion,” Bello has faced various accusations, including money laundering and fraud, which have turned him into a fugitive since April.
“Ordinarily, a lion fears no foe, but it’s puzzling that this lion has been missing for five months,” Adebiyi reflects. However, Bello made an unexpected appearance in Abuja last week, accompanied by a high-profile entourage and significant security details. Adebiyi questions the absurdity of a criminal suspect, wanted by the authorities, walking freely in the nation’s capital with official protection.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which has been investigating Bello for years, had to navigate the delicate situation carefully to avoid escalating tensions while striving to hold him accountable. Adebiyi highlights that this incident raises critical questions about impunity and the government’s ability to address it effectively.
After leaving office in January and losing his constitutional immunity, Bello was called in for interrogation regarding serious allegations, including the laundering of over N80 billion. Instead of cooperating, he accused the EFCC of political persecution and went underground, further confusing observers regarding his motives.
Many are left wondering how such a high-profile suspect could evade the law for so long. According to the EFCC, Bello took refuge under the immunity of his successor, Ahmed Ododo, which they argue has complicated his arrest. However, Adebiyi emphasizes that a governor’s immunity does not extend to their associates.
“The duty of security personnel is to prevent crime and make arrests,” Adebiyi states. He insists that proper communication and cooperation between agencies could resolve the issues surrounding Bello’s arrest. An order from key security heads could ensure that he is taken into custody without further delay.
Moreover, Adebiyi warns Ododo that while he may have immunity, his actions could amount to obstruction of justice, which is a serious offense. He stresses that Ododo’s loyalties should align with the law and state interests, not personal connections.
Asserting his innocence, Bello has claimed that political enemies are behind his troubles. Adebiyi urges him to take the allegations seriously, noting that with weighty charges against him, he should be eager to stand up and clear his name. He recalls the old adage, “a clear conscience fears no accusation,” pointing out that the former governor’s reputation is on the line.
With serious charges filed against him—accusations of embezzlement and money laundering amounting to billions—Bello’s next steps are crucial. For someone who has achieved a distinguished political career, the focus should be on addressing these serious claims rather than evading justice.
Adebiyi concludes by reiterating that Bello should emerge from hiding and defend his reputation vigorously. “A good name is worth more than gold and silver,” he emphasizes, suggesting that facing the allegations head-on could ultimately restore his honor and silence critics.
