The Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has recalled all police personnel assigned to former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.
The PUNCH reported that this directive was part of a police communication observed on Friday.
The message, bearing the reference number “CB:4001/DOPS/PMF/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.48/ 34,” stated, “IG has ordered the withdrawal of all policemen attached to His Excellency and former Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello. Acknowledge compliance and treat with utmost importance. Please, above, for your information and strict compliance.”
Earlier, the Nigerian Immigration Service had included the former governor on its watchlist following an announcement by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission that he was sought for an alleged N80.2 billion money laundering case.
An NIS notice dated April 18, 2024, authorized by Assistant Comptroller of Immigration, DS Umar, on behalf of Comptroller-General, Kemi Nandap, indicated, “I am directed to inform you that the above-named person has been placed on the watch list. Suffice to mention that the subject is being prosecuted before the Federal High Court Abuja for conspiracy, breach of trust, and money laundering vide letter Ref; CR; 3000/EFCC/LS/EGCS.1/ TE/Vide/1/279 dated April 18, 2024. If seen at any entry or exit point, he should be arrested and referred to the Director of Investigation or contact 08036226329/07039617304 for further action.”
Previously, the EFCC had issued a public appeal for information on Bello’s whereabouts and announced plans to bring him before the Federal High Court in Abuja on charges of money laundering.
The court had also issued an arrest warrant for Bello, who was to be prosecuted alongside three other individuals, Ali Bello, Dauda Suliman, and Abdulsalam Hudu, under a 19-count indictment before Justice Emeka Nwite.
However, an arrest attempt by the EFCC at Bello’s residence in Abuja was disrupted by a contingent of “Special Forces” and police officers, as reported by Premium Politics. This intervention allowed Bello to evade capture, facilitated by Governor Usman Ododo’s security detail, which helped him exit the scene in the governor’s vehicle.
