By 9jaeye 
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed fresh charges against the former governor of Kogi State, Yaya Bello, accusing him of orchestrating a N110 billion fraud. This comes on the heels of earlier accusations of N80.2 billion in money laundering charges. The new charges, filed in Abuja, allege that Bello misappropriated public funds during his tenure and used them to acquire several high-end properties in areas like Maitama and Asokoro in Abuja.
The EFCC is pursuing a 16-count charge against Bello and two co-defendants, Umar Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, for diverting funds from the Kogi State treasury. In addition to domestic acquisitions, the EFCC claims that some of the diverted funds were illegally transferred abroad.
Bello, who has been at the center of multiple corruption allegations, had been previously declared wanted by the EFCC after allegedly evading arrest. He continues to maintain his innocence, claiming persecution by the commission. However, the EFCC is pushing for accountability, emphasizing that the former governor should clear his name in court.
The case is currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja, and the EFCC has assured the public that justice will take its course. Bello’s legal team, meanwhile, insists that their client has complied with all legal summonses, challenging the EFCC’s actions.
For more detailed updates on the ongoing case, visit the EFCC official website.