The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified that former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, remains innocent under the law until a competent court delivers a final verdict in the ongoing ₦80.2 billion corruption case against him.

The anti-graft agency stressed that the matter is still before the Federal High Court and has not been concluded, urging the public to separate legal proceedings from political debates.

The clarification followed renewed public attention on Bello’s trial amid reports of his interest in contesting the Kogi Central senatorial seat in 2027.

Bello is being prosecuted over allegations of diversion and mismanagement of Kogi State funds during his tenure as governor. The case is before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court sitting in Maitama, Abuja.

Speaking during a television interview on Monday, EFCC Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwuajeren, said the Commission does not determine guilt, noting that criminal trials take time and must follow due process.

According to him, the EFCC’s role is limited to presenting evidence and witnesses, while the judiciary alone is empowered to decide guilt or innocence.

“The trial is still ongoing before the court. We are presenting witnesses and evidence. It is not the Commission that will decide the matter; it is the court,” Uwuajeren said.

He emphasised that Bello’s political ambitions or status within his party have no bearing on the case, insisting that the EFCC is not involved in party politics.

“Yahaya Bello is under trial, but the Constitution presumes anyone standing trial to be innocent until proven otherwise. Whatever is happening to him within his party is purely party affairs. EFCC is not a political party,” he stated.

Uwuajeren added that the Commission remains committed to prosecuting the case diligently and fairly, ensuring justice for both the prosecution and the defence.

“The responsibility we owe Nigerians is to faithfully prosecute the charges we have filed in court, and we are doing so religiously. Nothing has gone amiss, and we remain committed to the process,” he said.

The EFCC’s comments appear aimed at easing public tension and reinforcing the principle that legal proceedings should not be conflated with political activities.

Bello was arraigned shortly after leaving office over the alleged ₦80.2 billion fraud, and the case has since progressed through multiple court sessions as trial continues.