Tinubu Angry With Kogi Governor, Ododo, For Shielding Yahaya Bello From EFCC Arrest
President Bola Tinubu has reportedly expressed his displeasure with Kogi State Governor,
for Shielding Yahaya Bello from EFCC Arrest In a bid to uphold the integrity of law enforcement institutions, President Bola Tinubu has reportedly expressed his displeasure with Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, for allegedly shielding his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, from arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC had invited Bello over allegations of mismanaging N80.2 billion in public funds during his tenure as governor. Sources indicate that President Tinubu, who had recently returned from an official trip to China, was concerned that the issue was escalating into a public spectacle, undermining the country’s ability to enforce the rule of law. The president was reportedly upset to learn that despite his instructions for the law to be upheld, Governor Ododo was allegedly helping Bello avoid the EFCC’s invitation. Tinubu, who is keen to stay out of the internal matters of his party—the All Progressives Congress (APC)—was said to be frustrated by Ododo’s actions, especially as they involved a high-profile anti-corruption case.
2024 According to a close adviser, the president believes that no public official, including Bello, should avoid answering questions about their financial conduct while in office. “The president’s concern is simple: if Yahaya Bello is truly innocent, there should be no reason for him to avoid the EFCC’s invitation. He should, instead, honor the process, explain his side, and present any evidence that may exonerate him,” said the adviser. “By not doing so, it casts doubt on his innocence and creates unnecessary tension between the state and the anti-graft agency.” The source added that Tinubu expected Governor Ododo, who swore to uphold the law when he took office, to advise his predecessor to face the EFCC rather than prolong the drama. “It’s unbecoming for a sitting governor to allegedly assist a former governor in avoiding the law,” the adviser added. Another senior aide to the president, who chose to remain anonymous, said that Tinubu was angered by the fact that a simple issue had been turned into a public controversy. “This is not what we expected from both Bello and Ododo. It’s a straightforward matter—honor the invitation, present your case, and let the legal process play out.” Advertisements The president’s position on the matter has drawn widespread attention, with political observers noting that his commitment to strengthening the country’s institutions may be tested by this high-profile case within his own party. Legal experts and civil society groups have also weighed in, condemning Bello’s refusal to cooperate with the EFCC and warning that Ododo’s actions could have long-term consequences. A renowned legal practitioner, Adeyemi Sulaimon, criticized Governor Ododo for allegedly violating the law, saying it was an abuse of his position to shield a suspect from facing legal proceedings. “If these allegations are true, Governor Ododo could face legal repercussions once he leaves office,” Sulaimon warned. Similarly, Nelson Ekujumi, the convener of the Patriotism Awareness Forum (PAF), urged Ododo to distance himself from the matter to avoid further complicating his political future. “The court is available for anyone seeking to clear their name, and Ododo should not involve himself in what could lead to serious legal ramifications.” Advertisements Despite the growing pressure, both Governor Ododo and former Governor Yahaya Bello have remained silent on the issue. Attempts to reach their media teams for comment have so far been unsuccessful, with neither returning calls nor responding to messages. The ongoing standoff has raised concerns about the country’s democratic institutions and the ability of public officials to respect and uphold the rule of law. Observers say the way this situation is handled will serve as a crucial test for Tinubu’s administration and its commitment to fighting corruption, even within its own ranks.