The North Central Citizens Council (NCCC), has expressed its strong opposition to the alleged attempt to humiliate former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, amidst accusations of misappropriation of funds during his tenure.
This comes after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) issued a notice declaring Bello wanted for offenses related to an alleged case of money laundering amounting to N80.2bn.
The Coordinator of NCCC, Comrade Mohammed Eneji, in a statement said, “We stand in solidarity with Yahaya Bello; we commend His Excellency Gov Ododo for bringing calm by paying him a solidarity visit.”
“In light of this development, we reject the attempt to humiliate our amiable leader, Yahaya Bello, and demand that the EFCC withdraw immediately and unconditionally the tag declaring him wanted.”
Recall that the embattled former governor has been placed on the watch list of the Nigerian Immigration Service, while all police officers attached to him have been withdrawn by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
Eneji called on other North Central governors’ forums to show support for Bello, emphasizing that the media campaign against Governor Ododo propagated by the Yoruba arrangement should come to an end.
Eneji added, “Indeed, the plot to declare Yahaya Bello wanted without vacating the order from a court of competent jurisdiction smacks of authoritarianism and portends grave danger to our democracy.
“We will, therefore, resist by any legitimate means necessary any attempt to establish Odùa hegemony in the North Central region.
“If Yahaya Bello is further humiliated and hounded by the Federal Government, we will stage a mega protest that will reverberate around the country. If the President occupies Aso Rock Villa, we will occupy Eagle Square.
“If the Attorney General occupies the courtrooms, we will take over Abuja City Gate. If the IGP occupies the Louis Edet House, we will occupy Eagle Square, and if they occupy the borders with immigration, we will occupy the streets of Abuja and Nigeria.
“We say no to ethnic suppression. We say no to this Yoruba arrangement. We say no to persecution and miscarriage of justice!”