The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has decided to withdraw its application at the Court of Appeal against the embattled former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.
The EFCC said the notice of withdrawal is predicated on the fact that the application filed has been overtaken by the decision of the Kogi State High Court.
This was made known in court application filed on Tuesday at the Court of Appeal Abuja judicial division by J. S. Okutepa, SAN and others on behalf of the Commission.
The commission said the subject of the appeal has been determined by the Kogi High Court Judge, Justice Jamil J. on April 17, 2024.
READ ALSO: JUST-IN: I’ll Resign If Yahaya Bello Is Not Prosecuted – EFCC Chairman
The EFCC, therefore, told the court that the notice of appeal was filed out of time and now pray that the appeal be struck out for being filed out of time and incompetent.
EFCC, on Tuesday stepped up its bid to prosecute the ex-Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello for alleged misappropriation of public funds.
Bello has also been declared wanted by the EFCC, and is alleged to have stolen about N80 billion from the Kogi treasury.
The withdrawal of the suit against Yahaya Bello underscores the need for greater transparency, accountability, and integrity in Nigeria’s legal and political systems. It serves as a reminder of the challenges facing the country in combating corruption and ensuring justice for all citizens.
EFCC’s decision to withdraw its suit against Yahaya Bello raises important questions about the nature of corruption allegations, the effectiveness of anti-corruption agencies, and the integrity of Nigeria’s legal system. While supporters of Bello may see it as a victory, critics and opposition figures have expressed concerns about the implications for accountability and transparency in public office. Moving forward, Nigeria must continue to strengthen its institutions and uphold the rule of law to combat corruption and ensure justice for all.
