Gunfire echoed through Asokoro, Abuja, on Wednesday night as operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) attempted to arrest former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, at the Kogi State Governor’s Lodge. The former governor faces allegations of laundering a staggering N80.2 billion, with a 19-count charge filed against him by the EFCC.

Dramatic Showdown at Kogi Lodge

The EFCC’s efforts to apprehend Bello were met with stiff resistance from security personnel stationed at the lodge, resulting in a tense standoff. While the situation eventually de-escalated, movements around the lodge were tightly restricted. Sources report that Bello was last seen leaving the premises with his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, although his current whereabouts remain unclear.

Bello’s Media Office Condemns ‘Gestapo-Like’ Tactics

In a statement issued by Yahaya Bello’s media office, Director Ohiare Michael strongly criticized the EFCC’s attempt to arrest Bello, labeling it unnecessary and aggressive. Michael emphasized that the former governor had voluntarily reported to the EFCC earlier in the day, only to be told to return at a later time. Hours later, the commission launched what the media office called a “Gestapo-like” raid on the Kogi Government Lodge.

ALSO READ: Yahaya Bello Responds to EFCC Invitation, Declares: “I Have Nothing to Hide”

“The EFCC’s actions are condemnable and politically motivated,” Michael’s statement read. “We demand that the EFCC be held responsible if anything happens to Governor Yahaya Bello.”

EFCC’s Silence as Controversy Grows

The incident has sparked widespread debate, with some Nigerians questioning the EFCC’s approach, viewing it as more of a political attack than an anti-corruption effort. The EFCC has yet to comment on the attempted arrest, as its spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, was unavailable for remarks at the time of this report.

Earlier in the day, Yahaya Bello had reportedly visited the EFCC headquarters voluntarily but was told to leave and return on another date, further fueling speculation about the sudden shift in the commission’s tactics.

Ongoing Battle Between Bello and the EFCC

As the N80.2 billion laundering case intensifies, the standoff between Yahaya Bello and the EFCC is far from over. With legal battles looming and political tensions running high, this dramatic showdown marks a significant development in the ongoing fight against corruption in Nigeria.