In a significant move, the North Central Progressive Voice, a Pan-Nigerian sociocultural group, has penned an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing deep apprehension regarding recent actions taken by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against former Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State.
The letter, signed by the group’s convener, Comrade Umar Gambo, emphasizes the urgency for President Tinubu’s intervention to prevent further escalation of the situation, which they fear could tarnish the administration’s reputation.
Held in Minna, the capital of Niger State, the group convened a World Press Conference and embarked on a solidarity walk through the streets of Minna before submitting the open letter to former Military President General Ibrahim Babangida for onward communication to President Tinubu.
Dated April 27th, 2024, the letter begins with a respectful greeting to President Tinubu and underscores the organization’s commitment to safeguarding the independence of the judiciary and civil society.
It recounts the events of April 17th, 2024, when the EFCC conducted a raid on Yahaya Bello’s home, purportedly in connection with charges of money laundering.
Expressing profound concern over the EFCC’s actions and potential infringements on constitutional principles and the rule of law, the group highlights a court order issued by the Lokoja High Court on February 9th, 2024, prohibiting the EFCC from arresting or prosecuting Yahaya Bello.
The letter criticizes the EFCC’s decision to seek a warrant for Bello’s arrest from another court while the appeal was still pending, emphasizing the importance of due process and respect for judicial authority.
Despite EFCC’s recent withdrawal of the appeal seeking to overturn the restraining order granted to Alhaji Yahaya Bello, public dismay remains palpable.
Legal experts have condemned the EFCC’s actions, emphasizing the significance of adhering to court orders and proper legal procedures.
The letter implores President Tinubu to leverage his political acumen to address the EFCC’s unjust attempts to arrest Bello in defiance of a standing court order.
It calls for holding the EFCC accountable for its actions and ensuring the protection of Bello’s civil rights, stressing the criticality of upholding due process, even for law enforcement agencies.
In conclusion, the North Central Progressive Voice extends gratitude to President Tinubu for his anticipated attention to the matter, underscoring their utmost respect and trust in his leadership.
This open letter stands as a public plea to President Tinubu to intervene and ensure that the EFCC upholds the rule of law and respects due process in its actions against former Governor Yahaya Bello.
