Politics
EFCC’S POLITICAL AGENDA EXPOSED AS COMMISSION DESPERATELY CHARGES YAHAYA BELLO FOR DIVERTING KOGI’S FUNDS MONTHS BEFORE HE ASSUMED OFFICE
Published
11 months agoon
EFCC’S POLITICAL AGENDA EXPOSED AS COMMISSION DESPERATELY CHARGES YAHAYA BELLO FOR DIVERTING KOGI’S FUNDS MONTHS BEFORE HE ASSUMED OFFICE
.SAYS ROGUES POLITICIANS CONNIVING WITH COMMISSION TO TARNISH COUNTRY’S ANTI-CORRUPTION IMAGE
. INSISTS KOGI’S MONEY WORKING FOR ITS PEOPLE, NOT MISSING
The Kogi State Government has raised the alarm over what it described as a desperate attempt by “criminals masquerading as politicians” to tarnish the image of the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, HE Yahaya Bello, for selfish reasons, through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The state government said, in its desperation, “which would leave Nigerians wondering who exactly is afraid of Yahaya Bello”, the EFCC has, in an amended charge, accused the former Governor of diverting Kogi State Government funds in September 2015, four months before he assumed the position of a Governor.
It said this was not only laughable but portrayed the EFCC as an agency infested with persons whose intents disagree with the noble intention of Mr. President to defeat corruption in Nigeria.
A statement signed by the Commissioner for Information in Kogi State, Kingsley Fanwo, said, “The fact that the EFCC, in charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/550/2022: FRN V. 1. Ali Bello 2. Dauda Suleiman, currently pending before Honorable Justice J.K. Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division further amended the ‘Amended Charge’ to include in the count, the name of H.E Yahaya Bello, describing him as being “at large”, is ridiculous, laughable and portrays the EFCC as an agency infested with persons whose intents disagree with the noble intention of Mr. President to defeat corruption in Nigeria.
“Being ‘at large’ of course means that a person is evading arrest or is on the run and cannot be found after an attempt to arrest.
“For the sake of clarity, the original charge is against Ali Bello and Dauda Suleiman, Ali’s associate. The offence which H.E Yahaya Bello is alleged to have committed upon which he has been named in the count is conspiracy to convert the total sum of N80,246,470,089.88 (Eighty Billion, Two Hundred and Forty Six Million, Four Hundred and Seventy Thousand, Eighty Nine Naira, Eighty Eight Kobo) which offence is said to have occurred on or about September 2015 in Abuja. His co-conspirators according to the Count are Abdulsalami Hudu (Kogi State Government House Cashier) described as being ‘at large’ too, Ali Bello and Dauda Suleiman.
“In the EFCC’s desperation to nail H.E Yahaya Bello, they forgot their thinking hammer at home.
“The Count of the offence is most laughable as the election that produced H.E Yahaya Bello, CON, as Governor of Kogi was only conducted in November 2015. Indeed, H.E. Captain Idris Wada of the PDP held sway as Governor of Kogi State at the material time until he handed over to H.E Yahaya Bello on the 27th day of January 2016.
“H.E Yahaya Bello could therefore not have as of September 2015 conspired with anyone, including Abdulsalami Hudu, a Kogi Government House Cashier to convert any money belonging to the Kogi State Government. It is to be noted that H.E Yahaya Bello before becoming the Governor of Kogi State had no financial dealings with the Kogi State Government which could have permitted him to convert monies belonging to the Kogi State Government, hence, one’s dismay at the allegation.”
The state government warned political actors to steer clear of Kogi State affairs and desist from their campaign of calumny “as the state government has not said its money is missing, and has been adjudged, both locally and internationally, as top in the area of transparency and accountability.”
The state government asked: “Why should Nigerians trust the leadership of the agency that made such a ridiculous, shameless and indefensible allegation? The Chairman of the Commission should tender unreserved apologies to the Nigerian people for making us a laughing stock in the comity of nations.”
It called on the President to step in to save the integrity of the EFCC from those “pushing the Commission into a fight that should be left to politicians.”
“The Kogi State Government under the leadership of His Excellency Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo will continue to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President. We will also continue to promote probity, accountability and transparency and open our books to agencies and institutions constitutionally empowered to look into them. We will continue to win awards in transparency and accountability,” the state government added.
The journey did not begin today, according to Fanwo.
He said, “In 2021, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in a desperate bid to embarrass the Government of Kogi State then under the leadership of His Excellency Alh. Yahaya Bello, came out with a false claim that it had uncovered over N20 billion Naira of the state’s bail out fund in a Fixed Deposit Account in Sterling Bank. Emboldened by its innocence, the Kogi State Government wrote a letter to Sterling Bank for clarifications.
“The Bank came out clean that the State Government had no such account with it, rubbishing the blatant falsehood of the EFCC in a manner that was so embarrassing to the people and Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“But rather than apologize to the Government of Kogi State and the general public, the EFCC chose to harass the officials of Sterling Bank, coercing them to do everything possible to achieve the aim of roping tue Kogi State Government into their ignominy ring. It ended with a conspiratorial exchange between the EFCC and the CBN. Today, Nigerians are not confused about the personae of Bawa and Emefiele.
“The sack of Bawa and the startling revelations that followed threw Nigerians into jubilation. Their hope was that EFCC will birth a new era of separating political vendetta from the actual fight against corruption. But recent happenings have shown that it isn’t war against corruption anymore but a clear manifestation of hired gun approach to hack down political opponents by certain elements within and outside the anti graft agency.
“This betrays the determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR to retool the agency and make it more vibrant in preventing and fighting corruption in a genuine and objective manner within the ambit of the rule of law.”
According to him, the current leadership of the EFCC has now continued to tow the path of the leadership of Abdulrasheed Bawa who woke up one day in August 2021, decided in his mind that the Kogi State Government had Twenty Billion Naira in an account, secured ex-parte, an Order of the Federal High Court, Lagos empowering him to direct the Manager of Sterling Bank Plc to freeze Account No. 0073572696 with the name Kogi State Salary Bail Out Account pending the conclusion of investigation or possible prosecution.
“They went on even when Sterling Bank through a letter addressed to the Kogi State Government dated 1st September, 2021 confirmed that ‘the Kogi State Government does not currently operate or maintain a Fixed Deposit Account with Sterling Bank’
‘There is no mandate letter from the Kogi State Government to open account number 0073572696 with Sterling’ and that ‘Sterling Bank account 0073572696’ is an internal (mirror) account operated by the Bank for purposes of managing the Kogi State salary bailout facility,” he said.
The state government added, “While the EFCC’s suit was withdrawn and the Order of Court vacated upon a challenge by the Kogi State Government, the EFCC continued to issue press statements on all its social media platforms, attaching the pictures of H.E Yahaya Bello to those statements and insisting that the factual basis of their claim was genuine. To cover up the falsehood and their shame, the EFCC under Bawa compelled Sterling Bank Plc and the CBN under its embattled Governor Emefiele, to write letters confirming the return of funds belonging to the Kogi State Government to the CBN, when no such funds existed.
“The EFCC has since refused to answer to the suit filed against it since 2021 by the Kogi State Government and its officials challenging the falsehood on the issue of bailout funds. The EFCC has continued to maintain frivolous appeals even when the Court of Appeal had confirmed that the trial Court had the jurisdiction to entertain the suit.
“A similar modus operandi was employed by the EFCC with respect to the former first lady of Kogi State, Rashida Bello. She was named in the counts of offence and described as being at large in Charge No: FHC/ABJ/573/2022: FRN V. (1) ALI BELLO (2) ABBA ADAUDU (3) YAKUBU SIYAKA ADABENEGE (4) IYADI SADAT and was alleged to have conspired to criminally misappropriate over Three Billion Naira, funds allegedly belonging to some Local Government Areas of Kogi State. It is noteworthy that she was never invited by the EFCC or arrested before branding her as being ‘at large’.
“As usual, the EFCC employed rogue ‘news’ platforms who sensationalized the issue, claiming that the then First Lady has been charged to Court and was running from justice!”
The Kogi Government said the current leadership of the EFCC seemed to have picked up the gauntlet from where Bawa left it.
“They have started using their media cronies and other faceless blogs and rogue media handles to spread lies about H.E Yahaya Bello. The purpose of the current amendment of Charge No. 550/2022 is no doubt to allow their irresponsible bloggers gleefully but erroneously claim that Yahaya Bello has been charged to Court for the conversion of over 80 Billion of Kogi money, an offence which was allegedly committed when he was not yet a Governor.
“The unprecedented extent to which the EFCC is ready to go to tarnish the image of the Kogi State Government and also the image of the immediate past Governor, His Excellency Alh Yahaya Bello, has left much to be desired.
“It is in our character to fight in defence of the integrity of the Government and over 5 million Kogites whose common patrimony the Government allocates on their behalf. We are prepared to use the instrumentality of law to defend the integrity of the State Government.
“We urge the people of Kogi State to remain calm and law abiding in the face of relentless provocation by EFCC who is insisting that the money we used to build infrastructure in the state is missing. We will never lose a just battle.”
Signed: Kingsley Femi Fanwo
Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications
6th February, 2024.
Related
religion
Prophecy for 2025: A Year of Vengeance, Harvest, and Divine Shifts By Pro. Kingsley Aitafo
Published
1 day agoon
December 21, 2024Prophecy for 2025: A Year of Vengeance, Harvest, and Divine Shifts By Pro. Kingsley Aitafo
Sahara Weekly Reports That Prophet Kingsley Aitafo, under the grace and spiritual leadership of His Eminence Rev. Pastor Samuel Belehou Oshoffa, founder of the Celestial Church of Christ, has unveiled 25 prophecies for the year 2025. These revelations call for vigilance, prayer, and alignment with divine purpose. Below is the detailed list of the prophecies:
1. A Year of Divine Justice
2025 will be a year of vengeance upon the wicked and a season of abundant harvest for the righteous. This is a time for reflection and spiritual alignment.
2. Weather Disasters to Pray Against
The world must unite in prayers against severe weather disasters, including excessive winds, water overflow, floods, earthquakes, and tsunamis. These natural calamities threaten to disrupt lives and properties globally.
3. A Major Technological Advancement
WhatsApp is predicted to receive a significant upgrade, potentially integrating email functionalities. This innovation will redefine digital communication.
4. Nigeria’s National Football Team
The Nigerian national football team should be prayed for, as a painful defeat could occur.
5. A Great Man of God in Danger
One of the most celebrated men of God is at risk of sudden death. Prayers are needed to avert this tragedy.
6. Sunday Igboho
The activist should be prayed for to avoid heart-touching news that could cause widespread concern.
7. Nnamdi Kanu
Freedom is within reach for Nnamdi Kanu, but prayers are needed to ensure he lives to see it.
8. Fire Disasters Worldwide
Serious fire disasters are foreseen and must be prayed against to protect lives and properties globally.
9. NYSC and PHCN Reforms
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) will be empowered and reshuffled for greater effectiveness.
10. Global Police Forces
The police worldwide are warned of potential brutal revolts from the masses. Prayers are needed to prevent such events.
11. African Nations and Coups
Several African countries are advised to pray against unexpected coup plots.
12. Goodluck Jonathan’s Political Path
Former President Goodluck Jonathan is encouraged to follow God’s leading and refrain from contesting future elections.
13. Changes in EFCC
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will be more empowered, but significant transformations will occur within the agency.
14. Passing of Aged Leaders
Several aged ex-presidents, traditional rulers, and military leaders will pass on in 2025.
15. New Religious Leaders
New leaders will emerge in white garment denominations and the Catholic Church, marking significant transitions.
16. Churches in Danger of Scandals
Great churches like RCCG, Winners Chapel, Christ Embassy, Mountain of Fire, and COZA are urged to pray against confusion and scandals that could lead to divisions.
17. Exposure of False Churches
Churches that operate under the guise of Christ without genuine faith will be exposed.
18. Protection of Yoruba Entertainers
Yoruba actors and actresses should pray against strange illnesses, while English-speaking entertainers must pray against sudden deaths.
19. Plane Crashes
A major plane crash could occur, causing widespread pain. Prayers are needed to prevent this disaster.
20. National Unity in Nigeria
Despite ongoing agitations, Nigeria will remain undivided.
21. The Monarch and Pope’s Seat
Prayers are required to prevent sudden vacancies in the monarchy of England and the papal seat.
22. Deadly Disease and Global Conflict
A new, more deadly ailment than COVID-19 and the potential of a mini-war loom on the horizon. The world must unite in prayer to avert these crises.
23. Rising of True Last-Day Churches
The emergence of last-day churches will bring forth spiritual giants and miraculous powers reminiscent of the apostles of old.
24. Business Tycoons in Nigeria
Successful Nigerian business magnates should seek divine protection against untimely death.
25. Christ’s Return is Near
Finally, Prophet Kingsley reminds the world that the return of Jesus Christ is near. Embracing holiness and righteousness is the only path to prepare for His coming.
Prophet Kingsley’s prophecies serve as a divine reminder for individuals, nations, and institutions to seek God’s guidance and protection. Let 2025 be a year of faith, reflection, and readiness for what lies ahead.
Let us watch, pray, and align with God’s will.
Related
Politics
Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice
Published
2 days agoon
December 20, 2024Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice
The global coordinator of the Obidient Movement has announced that Peter Obi, former presidential candidate and leader of the movement, has stepped forward to fulfill the bail conditions for human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi.
Farotimi, a prominent activist known for his bold stance against systemic issues in Nigeria, was recently granted ₦30 million bail by a Federal High Court following charges filed against him. The case has attracted significant public attention, with widespread support for Farotimi from various quarters.
In a statement, the Coordinator revealed that Obi expressed his gratitude to the judiciary and all stakeholders involved in the legal process. The former presidential candidate emphasized the importance of fairness, transparency, and the rule of law in resolving the matter.
The Obidient Movement, known for championing justice and accountability, has remained vocal in its support for Farotimi. The group reiterated its commitment to upholding the principles of justice and transparency in Nigeria’s judicial system.
The next hearing in Farotimi’s case is scheduled for January 2025, with supporters hopeful for a resolution that upholds the integrity of the legal process.
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Politics
Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate
Published
3 days agoon
December 19, 2024Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate
The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Thursday described the allegation that the House spent N17 billion on the fixing of a gate as spurious and funny.
A self-proclaimed group, Lagos State Anti-Corruption Coalition, had accused the Assembly of spending the amount to construct a gate. The group also sought investigation of the claim.
Speaking at plenary, Dr. Obasa said the allegation stemmed from the fear of some people over 2027 which is still more than two years away.
Obasa further debunked the claim that the House spent N200 million on its recently organised 22nd thanksgiving service for staff.
“It is so funny. How much is the allocation of the Assembly in the whole year that we will decide to spend N17 billion on a gate? They even claimed that we expended 200 million on thanksgiving that did not hold.
“We are aware that at a period like this when we are approaching elections in 2027, we should expect such things. I think some people are scared and I don’t know why.
“This House did not and has not embarked on any such project. We are not that reckless. We had our thanksgiving last Friday and dignitaries from various parts of the State attended it,” the Speaker said.
Addressing further claims by the group about the alleged relationship between him and the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, the Speaker denied attending the latter’s screening and confirmation by the National Assembly.
“They said that I was at the National Assembly when they were confirming the EFCC chairman. I want to believe that there are CCTV cameras at the National Assembly to identify those who attended the event. The press must have written about it too. So the group should do more to confirm if I was there.
“This is just to deny the allegations in the interest of the public and not the writers because the writers are not those we should be joining words with,” the Speaker said.
Earlier, the House, through its spokesperson, Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, had addressed the allegations noting that the Assembly bases its activities on integrity, transparency and accountability.
“It is ludicrous the claim about constituency intervention funds and constituency project funds and their handling by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko as claimed by the group.
“One would have expected a self-acclaimed anti-corruption crusading group to do its groundwork before jumping across the fence with conviction that it hit a jackpot to malign an institution of repute in the name of politics.
“Simply put, the Lagos State House of Assembly does not have any such funds. The Assembly does not embark on constituency projects. Instead, once every year, the House holds stakeholders’ meetings simultaneously across the state where constituents have the opportunity to tell the lawmakers their expectations and make requests for the betterment of the state.
“These requests and expectations are compiled and sent to the executive arm of government for consideration as inputs in subsequent budgets. If this is what the group takes as constituency intervention or project funds, we are sure this explanation has given the required education, moreover, it is common knowledge that it is the responsibility of the Executive arm to execute such projects,” the earlier statement by Ogundipe read.
Eromosele Ebhomele
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
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