The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has restated that former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, remains innocent in the ongoing ₦80.2 billion fraud case until a competent court delivers a final verdict.
The commission stressed that the determination of guilt or innocence lies solely with the judiciary and not with the EFCC or any other institution.
Speaking on Monday during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show, EFCC Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwujaren, explained that Bello’s trial is progressing in court, with witnesses being called and evidence presented in line with due process.
Uwujaren noted that criminal trials in Nigeria are often lengthy and must follow established legal procedures to ensure fairness. He emphasized that the EFCC’s responsibility is limited to prosecuting the case before the court and presenting facts as charged.
“The trial is ongoing. Witnesses are testifying, and evidence is being examined. Under our Constitution, anyone standing trial is presumed innocent until proven guilty,” he said.
He also dismissed claims of political interference, stating that the EFCC is not influenced by Bello’s political standing or party affiliations. According to him, any actions taken by Bello’s political party have no bearing on the commission’s legal proceedings.
“The EFCC is not concerned with party politics. Our focus is the enforcement of the law and ensuring justice for both the prosecution and the defence,” Uwujaren added.
He further assured that the commission has acted within the bounds of the law and that nothing improper has occurred in the handling of the case.
The EFCC reaffirmed its non-partisan stance and commitment to pursuing the case to its logical conclusion, insisting that only the courts have the authority to decide Bello’s fate in the ₦80.2 billion fraud trial.