Lokoja (TheGavel) — The Kogi House of Assembly has responded to fraud allegations against former Governor Yahaya Bello, firmly stating that no state funds are missing. During a plenary session on Monday, lawmakers asserted, “There is no money missing in Kogi coffers to warrant such accusation and prosecution.”
The assembly members emphasized the need for thoroughness in any legal proceedings involving Bello, who is facing a 19-count money laundering charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) before Justice Emeka Nwite at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Representatives Akus Lawal of Ankpa 1 and Jacob Olawunmi of Mopamuro raised concerns over the ongoing legal actions against Bello, calling the situation “worrisome.” Lawal suggested that the EFCC’s actions seem aimed at “humiliating Governor Usman Ododo and former Governor Yahaya Bello.”
Olawunmi seconded this motion, pointing out that the Kogi State Government has consistently published its Audited Financial Reports, reinforcing the claim that no funds are unaccounted for. “The Kogi House of Assembly can categorically say that no money is missing,” he stated.
Other lawmakers voiced similar sentiments, suggesting that the EFCC may have ulterior motives. “The agency has a different agenda, as revealed by the manner it handled Bello’s arrest,” they contended. Yahaya Umar, representing Omala State Constituency, criticized the EFCC’s actions, claiming they are aimed at ridiculing the state and targeting Bello specifically.
Deputy Speaker Comfort Nwuchiola Egwaba added that Bello is facing a “media trial” intended to tarnish his reputation, asserting, “The EFCC has an agenda it is pursuing.”
In addition to addressing the fraud allegations, the Kogi House of Assembly passed a resolution praising President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies aimed at strengthening the economy. Speaker Aliyu Yusuf, who presented the resolution, also commended Governor Ododo’s efforts to enhance Kogi’s status.
The assembly condemned the attempts to arrest Bello on April 17 and September 18, and expressed concern over a reported attack on the Governor’s Lodge in Abuja. Lawmakers urged the EFCC to adhere to the rule of law and called on its Chairman to ensure that President Tinubu’s crusade for lawfulness is effectively implemented. (NAN)
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