The Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has issued an order to withdraw all police officers assigned to the embattled former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.
This directive, conveyed through a police wireless message, instructs the immediate removal of security personnel from Bello’s service.
The police document, bearing reference number “CB:4001/DOPS/PMF/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.48/34,” stated, “IG has ordered the withdrawal of all policemen attached to His Excellency and former Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.” It emphasized strict compliance with the order.
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Prior to this, the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) had placed Bello on its watchlist following allegations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of involvement in a money laundering case totaling N80.2 billion.
A circular from the NIS, dated April 18, 2024, and signed by Assistant Comptroller of Immigration, DS Umar, directed relevant authorities to arrest Bello if sighted at any entry or exit point.
The EFCC had declared Bello wanted and planned to arraign him before a Federal High Court in Abuja. However, a confrontation ensued when police officers, reportedly including “Special Forces,” thwarted the EFCC’s attempt to apprehend Bello at his Abuja residence. Governor Usman Ododo’s security team allegedly intervened, facilitating Bello’s departure from the scene in the governor’s vehicle.
