The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to take a more serious approach in handling the high-profile case involving former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.
In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA expressed disappointment over the confusion and lack of clarity surrounding Bello’s recent visit to the EFCC headquarters. Bello had been declared wanted by the EFCC over alleged involvement in an N80.2 billion money laundering case but reportedly appeared at the agency’s Abuja office.
HURIWA condemned the conflicting reports from both the EFCC and Bello’s media team, describing the situation as a sign of poor coordination and a lack of seriousness in addressing the allegations. The group criticized the EFCC’s handling of the case, accusing the agency of playing “political theatrics” rather than focusing on the genuine fight against corruption.
“This hide-and-seek game with Yahaya Bello is nothing short of a coordinated farce and an unpardonable gimmick. The EFCC must stop this charade and take serious action in enforcing Nigeria’s anti-graft laws,” the statement read.
HURIWA called for urgent reforms within the EFCC, warning that the dysfunction within Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions could undermine the country’s ability to wage a meaningful war on corruption.
