The Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has taken decisive action, withdrawing all police officers previously attached to the embattled former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.
The directive for the withdrawal was transmitted via a police wireless message, intercepted by our correspondent on Friday.
In a portion of the document marked with the reference number: “CB:4001/DOPS/PMF/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.48/ 34,” it stated, “IG has ordered the withdrawal of all policemen attached to His Excellency and former Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.
“Acknowledge compliance and treat with utmost importance. Please, above, for your information and strict compliance.”
In a parallel development, the Nigerian Immigration Service placed the former governor on its watchlist following allegations of money laundering to the tune of N80.2bn, declared by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
A circular from the NIS, dated April 18, 2024, and signed by Assistant Comptroller of Immigration, DS Umar, directed vigilance over Bello, providing his name, nationality, and passport number (B50083321). It emphasized legal actions against him and urged prompt arrest if sighted at any entry or exit point.
Earlier, the EFCC declared Bello wanted, urging the public to provide information about his whereabouts. The commission secured a warrant of arrest from the Federal High Court in Abuja and planned to arraign him alongside three other suspects.
However, a dramatic turn of events unfolded when police officers thwarted the EFCC’s attempt to apprehend Bello at his Abuja residence. Armed men, reportedly identified as “Special Forces,” intervened, leading to a standoff.
Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State reportedly intervened to prevent Bello’s arrest, with his security team escorting the former governor from the scene in the governor’s vehicle.