The Nigerian Youth for Good Governance has issued a stern warning to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding the safety of Kogi State’s current governor, Usman Ododo. During a press conference in Abuja, the group’s National Coordinator, Comrade Amos Otu, expressed concerns over recent actions by the EFCC, which he described as an “assassination attempt” on Governor Ododo amid ongoing investigations into former governor Yahaya Bello.
Otu highlighted the EFCC’s frequent invasions of Governor Ododo’s residence in search of Yahaya Bello, arguing that such actions could provoke violent confrontations if not managed carefully. He stated, “Therefore, we ask the Federal Government to call the EFCC to order. There are laid down procedures for tackling issues such as the investigation of financial crimes concerning politically exposed persons. Governor Yahaya Bello has already made himself available at the EFCC offices, raising questions about why he was not taken into custody there.”
The coordinator emphasized that both Governor Ododo and former Governor Bello should not be harmed, asserting their importance to Nigeria’s progress. “Governor Bello stands innocent in the eyes of the law until proven otherwise before the court. Attempts by the EFCC to tarnish his reputation will not succeed,” Otu declared.
The group condemned what they described as a brazen intrusion by EFCC operatives, alleging that they fired shots while attempting to arrest Bello at the Kogi Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja. This, according to Otu, constitutes a serious affront to democracy and endangers innocent lives. He called for an immediate investigation into the incident and urged the authorities to ensure the safety of both the governor and Kogi State citizens.
Otu further articulated concerns about the EFCC’s tactics, suggesting that their actions were akin to a proxy war against Governor Bello and potentially targeted at undermining his successor. He reminded the public that the law provides immunity for governors and protects their residences, criticizing the EFCC for its repeated incursions into Kogi’s government properties.
“Each of these invasions breaches the sacred provisions of privacy and immunity for Governor Usman Ododo as outlined in the 1999 constitution as amended,” Otu concluded, stressing the importance of upholding the rule of law and democratic principles.
