Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has voluntarily honored an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of financial fraud. This development was confirmed in a statement released on Wednesday by Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office.

According to the statement, Bello’s decision to present himself to the EFCC came after consultations with his family, legal team, and political associates. The former governor, known for his respect for the rule of law, had previously been represented by his legal team at all court hearings concerning the case.

“The case has been before a competent court of jurisdiction, and Alhaji Yahaya Bello has been duly represented at every hearing by his legal team,” the statement emphasized. It further added, “The former governor believes it is now the appropriate time to clear his name by directly engaging with the EFCC, as he has nothing to hide or fear.”

Bello, a staunch supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, is committed to the fight against corruption. His media office highlighted that during his tenure as governor, Bello was the first to establish an anti-corruption mechanism in Kogi State, aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of state resources.

The statement noted that several high-profile individuals accompanied the former governor to the EFCC headquarters. “We hope that the Commission will be professional and respect his fundamental rights as a citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Michael added.

Bello has been embroiled in a legal battle with the EFCC over allegations of financial misappropriation. Further details of his engagement with the anti-graft agency are expected to be disclosed in the coming days.