Former Nigerian ambassador to Botswana, Isaac Onuh, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately cease what he describes as a “macabre dance” against former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, under the guise of an anti-corruption campaign.
Speaking with journalists in Lokoja on Friday, Onuh, who also served as a lawmaker, warned the EFCC against unauthorized tactics allegedly used to intimidate Bello following his 2023 presidential bid.
He suggested that political adversaries could be exploiting the agency to damage Bello’s reputation, which he claimed remained untarnished through two terms as Kogi governor.
“His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, deserves a measure of respect and decorum from government agencies, including the EFCC, having served the state diligently and meritoriously for eight years,” Onuh asserted.
The former ambassador criticized the EFCC for making “unsubstantiated” claims of financial misconduct and “dubiously” declaring Bello wanted.
He claimed the agency had relied on media trials to publicly undermine Bello, who, according to Onuh, was recognized by international financial bodies for prudent state fund management.
“The EFCC has continued to embarrass him through media trials, which highlight the agency’s misuse of its powers,” Onuh stated. He also argued that Nigeria’s federal system mandates respect for sub-national autonomy, as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution.
He underscored that Kogi’s own State Anti-Corruption Commission had cleared Bello’s administration of wrongdoing.
Onuh criticized the EFCC’s recent operations, citing an incident in which EFCC officials reportedly staged a “commando operation” at the Kogi State liaison office in Abuja, after declining a meeting with Bello and the current governor, Yahaya Ododo, at the agency’s headquarters.
He referenced a recent letter from former Nigerian Bar Association President, Chief Olisa Agbakoba, to the Deputy Senate President, urging legislative reforms for law enforcement agencies.
Onuh further noted that 19 governors have petitioned the Supreme Court, challenging the constitutionality of the EFCC’s mandate.
He appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede upholds the law, to protect Nigeria’s international standing.
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