Ola Olukoyede
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has revealed startling details about the alleged financial dealings of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello in the days leading up to the end of his tenure.
Speaking in an interview monitored on Channels Television, Olukoyede disclosed that Bello allegedly transferred $720,000 directly from government coffers to a bureau de change (BDC) to prepay his child’s school fees. The EFCC boss described the transaction as deeply troubling, particularly given the widespread poverty and financial challenges facing Kogi State.
According to Olukoyede, the commission considers the alleged action a clear misuse of public funds and a grave breach of public trust. He stressed that the matter is no longer in the realm of public debate, as it is now before a court of competent jurisdiction.
“The EFCC has done its job—thorough investigation and prosecution—without fear or favour,” Olukoyede said, reaffirming the commission’s commitment to accountability and due process.
He also restated his earlier pledge to resign if Bello was not prosecuted, insisting that the case demonstrates the EFCC’s resolve to pursue corruption cases regardless of status or political influence.
“Being used by who at this stage of my life?” Olukoyede asked rhetorically, dismissing claims that external forces were behind the prosecution. He maintained that the facts of the case speak for themselves.
With the prosecution concluded, Olukoyede said the final determination now rests with the judiciary, as Nigerians await the outcome of one of the country’s most closely watched corruption cases in recent times.