The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has issued a scathing condemnation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) handling of allegations against former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.
In a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema, the CNPP expressed serious concerns over the EFCC’s methods, suggesting they have not only embarrassed the nation but also tainted Nigeria’s anti-corruption campaign with perceptions of compromise and politicization.
“The EFCC’s actions have brought embarrassment to our nation and fueled the perception that the anti-corruption campaign has been compromised and politicized,” the CNPP’s statement read.
The group further criticized the EFCC’s approach in the Yahaya Bello case, describing it as “unacceptable” and “undermining the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.” The CNPP highlighted a growing belief that the EFCC has shifted from prosecution to persecution in its handling of the case.
The CNPP, which represents all registered political parties in the country, outlined troubling events involving the former governor, who voluntarily surrendered to the EFCC.
However, rather than a straightforward process, he was allegedly released, only to face a “Gestapo-style raid” by EFCC operatives at the Kogi State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, later the same evening.
“This troubling sequence of events has led many Nigerians to question the true intentions of the EFCC,” the CNPP said.
The statement also recounted the background of the allegations against Bello, noting that the EFCC had previously attempted to arrest him on April 17, 2024, ahead of his arraignment on money laundering charges amounting to N80.2 billion. Justice Emeka Nwite had ruled that the charges be served through his legal counsel, Abdulwahab Muhammad (SAN).
In light of these developments, the CNPP urged the EFCC to cease any actions that suggest it is persecuting the former governor.
The group called for an end to what it described as the “wanton dramatization” of EFCC’s operations, urging the commission to refocus its efforts on genuine anti-corruption initiatives.
“The EFCC must redirect its efforts towards genuine anti-corruption initiatives and provide clear and consistent explanations for its contradictory actions,” the statement emphasized.
The CNPP also expressed solidarity with Nigerians advocating for transparency and fairness in the EFCC’s operations, noting that Bello’s voluntary surrender and legal representation demonstrate his commitment to due process.
Concluding its statement, the CNPP called on the EFCC to adhere strictly to the rule of law and avoid actions driven by political expediency or personal vendettas.
“The actions of the EFCC must be guided by the rule of law, not political expediency or personal vendettas,” the CNPP stated.
The group also called on the commission to restore its integrity and refocus on the genuine fight against corruption, urging it to abandon what they referred to as “counterproductive theatrics.”
As the situation continues to unfold, the CNPP pledged to closely monitor developments, stating, “The implications of this case extend beyond the individuals involved; it raises critical questions about the integrity of Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts and the role of the EFCC in upholding the rule of law.”
