Gunfire Erupts During EFCC Attempt to Arrest Ex-Governor Yahaya Bello in Abuja

Last night in Abuja, gunfire shattered the quiet as officers from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) attempted to arrest Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State. The incident unfolded near the Kogi State Government Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, intensifying tensions surrounding Bello‘s ongoing legal issues.

Sources indicate that the EFCC has been actively pursuing Bello in connection with an alleged N80.2 billion fraud case. Despite prior efforts, including a Federal High Court-issued arrest warrant, Bello had managed to evade capture for months, fueling public concern over the effectiveness of law enforcement in high-profile corruption cases.

Eyewitnesses reported that EFCC operatives surrounded the lodge around midnight, demanding Bello‘s surrender. What was intended to be a routine arrest quickly escalated into chaos. Gunshots were fired, though the exact circumstances leading to the shooting remain unclear. Initial reports suggest that the gunfire may have been warning shots fired by the operatives after encountering resistance or a perceived threat.

In response, Yahaya Bello‘s media office condemned the incident as a “gestapo-like attack” on the government facility, asserting that Bello had already presented himself to the EFCC earlier in the day and was asked to return at a later time. This account contradicts typical EFCC procedures, which usually involve careful planning and efforts to minimize public disturbance during high-profile arrests.

The EFCC has yet to issue an official statement regarding the gunfire, focusing instead on the legal proceedings against Bello. The commission seeks to arraign him on charges including money laundering and criminal breach of trust, addressing alleged financial mismanagement during his tenure.

Legal experts highlight the case’s complexity, noting that Bello‘s legal team has challenged the validity of the arrest warrant after charges were served through his counsel. This legal maneuvering underscores the broader issue of how the law applies to influential political figures in Nigeria, who are often perceived as being above the law due to their connections.

Public reaction has been mixed. Some view the EFCC’s actions as politically motivated, particularly given the timing and circumstances of the attempted arrest. Others, however, support the EFCC’s efforts as a necessary step in addressing corruption, calling for a transparent investigation into the night’s events.