Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga has explained why security agencies have been unable to arrest former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, who was declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged financial crimes amounting to N80.2 billion.
Speaking on Channels Television’sInside Sources, Onanuga revealed that the “complicated” case stems from the immunity enjoyed by Bello’s successor, current Kogi Governor Usman Ododo, under whose protection Bello is reportedly taking refuge. “Yahaya Bello is hiding under the ‘agbada’ (robe) of Governor Ododo, who enjoys immunity,” Onanuga stated, likening it to diplomatic immunity, which prevents security forces from entering the governor’s residence to apprehend Bello.
Despite multiple attempts, the EFCC has faced challenges due to the legal immunity Ododo holds as governor. Onanuga compared the situation to the UK standoff involving Wikileaks’ Julian Assange, who sought asylum in an embassy, making him temporarily untouchable by local authorities.
Until Bello leaves Ododo’s residence, the EFCC and police face limitations in their efforts to make an arrest.
