By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has hammered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) handling of allegations against ex-Kogi Governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello, accusing the agency of embarrassing the nation and compromising the anti-corruption campaign.
“The EFCC’s actions have not only brought embarrassment to our nation but have also fueled the perception that the anti-corruption campaign has been compromised and politicized,” stated Comrade James Ezema, CNPP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary.
The CNPP criticized the EFCC’s methods, particularly the “gestapo-style raid” on the Kogi State Governor’s lodge in Abuja, after Bello voluntarily surrendered. This approach has led many Nigerians to question the EFCC’s true intentions
Bello faces 19 counts of money laundering, totaling N80.2 billion, alongside three other suspects. The EFCC had previously attempted to arrest him on April 17, 2024, ahead of his scheduled arraignment on April 18, 2024.
The CNPP demanded that the EFCC cease its “wanton dramatization” and redirect efforts towards genuine anti-corruption initiatives, providing clear explanations for its contradictory actions. The CNPP stands in solidarity with Nigerians advocating for transparency and fairness in EFCC operations.
“We stand in solidarity with Nigerians who seek transparency and fairness in EFCC’s operations,” the CNPP stated, highlighting Bello’s willingness to cooperate, demonstrated by his voluntary surrender and ongoing legal representation.
The CNPP urges the EFCC to adhere to the rule of law, rather than political expediency or personal vendettas, and restore its integrity by focusing on the genuine fight against corruption.
“The actions of the EFCC must be guided by the rule of law, rather than political expediency or personal vendettas,” the CNPP emphasized.
As the situation unfolds, the CNPP stated they will continue to monitor developments closely and demand accountability from the EFCC.