The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has stated that former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, should be regarded as innocent until a competent court reaches a final verdict on the charges against him.
The Commission made this clarification amid public reactions following Bello’s declaration of interest in contesting the Kogi Central senatorial seat in 2027.
Speaking on Monday during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show, the EFCC Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwuajeren, explained that Bello’s trial is still ongoing before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja. Bello is facing allegations of diversion and misappropriation of Kogi State funds amounting to ₦80.2 billion during his tenure as governor.
Uwuajeren stressed that criminal prosecution in Nigeria is a process that requires time, as it involves the presentation of witnesses and evidence before the court. He noted that the EFCC is currently carrying out its role by presenting its case, while the final decision rests solely with the judiciary.
According to him, the Nigerian Constitution guarantees that any individual standing trial is presumed innocent until proven guilty. He added that Bello’s political ambitions or standing within his party have no bearing on the charges filed against him.
“The EFCC is not involved in party politics,” Uwuajeren said. “Our responsibility is to faithfully prosecute the charges before the court. It is the court that will determine guilt or innocence.”
He further explained that the Commission remains committed to ensuring justice for both the prosecution and the defence, insisting that the case is being handled properly and transparently.
Uwuajeren emphasized that whatever actions Bello’s political party may take concerning his ambition are purely internal matters and unrelated to the EFCC’s mandate.
“The EFCC is a law enforcement agency, not a political organisation,” he said. “We are focused solely on enforcing the law and ensuring that justice is served. Nothing has gone wrong in the prosecution of this case, and we remain committed to seeing it through.”
