In a significant move amid mounting legal and regulatory scrutiny, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate withdrawal of all police officers assigned to the embattled former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.
The directive, conveyed through a police wireless message issued on Thursday night.
According to SaharaReporters, the document with reference number CB:4001/DOPS/PMF/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.
“Acknowledge compliance and treat with utmost importance. Please, above, for your information and strict compliance.”
This development marks a notable escalation in the legal and administrative measures taken against Bello, who is under investigation for alleged financial misconduct amounting to N80.2 billion.
Earlier directives from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had urged all security agencies to place Bello on a watch list to prevent him from leaving the country.
The EFCC’s request, granted by relevant authorities, prompted the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to issue internal directives instructing area and zonal commands to arrest Bello if spotted attempting to leave the country. The NIS circular highlighted concerns that Bello might attempt to evade investigations by fleeing through land, air, or sea borders.
The unfolding developments come in the wake of the EFCC’s declaration of Bello as wanted for his alleged involvement in financial crimes.
The commission’s bulletin urged individuals with information regarding Bello’s whereabouts to report immediately to the EFCC or the nearest police station, signaling a concerted effort to locate and apprehend the former governor.
Bello’s legal troubles have intensified in recent days, with the EFCC’s probe shedding light on allegations of corruption and financial impropriety during his tenure as governor.
