Inspector General Withdraws Police Protection from Former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello Amidst Legal Controversy
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The Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive to withdraw all police personnel assigned to the embattled former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello. This decision, conveyed through a police wireless message, underscores the escalating legal issues surrounding Bello.
The police wireless message, with reference number “CB:4001/DOPS/PMF/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.48/34,” explicitly orders the withdrawal of police officers from Bello’s security detail. The directive emphasizes the importance of strict compliance with the order.
Bello’s legal woes stem from allegations of money laundering amounting to N80.2 billion, leading to his placement on the watchlist by the Nigerian Immigration Service. The circular, signed by Assistant Comptroller of Immigration, DS Umar, alerts authorities to Bello’s status and instructs his arrest if spotted at any entry or exit point.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had previously declared Bello wanted, urging the public to provide any relevant information on his whereabouts. The EFCC had obtained a warrant for his arrest and intended to arraign him before a Federal High Court in Abuja. However, their attempt to apprehend him was thwarted by armed individuals, including members of the Nigeria Police Force, allegedly acting under the direction of the current Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo.
The withdrawal of police protection from Bello marks a significant development in his legal saga, indicating the intensification of efforts to address the allegations against him. As the situation unfolds, it underscores the complexities surrounding the intersection of law, politics, and law enforcement in Nigeria.
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