The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reiterated that former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello remains innocent until proven guilty by a court of law, amid public reactions to his declaration to contest the Kogi Central senatorial seat in 2027.
Bello is currently standing trial before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, over allegations of diverting and misappropriating ₦80.2 billion in Kogi State funds during his tenure as governor.
Speaking on Monday during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show, the EFCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwuajeren, said the commission’s role is limited to prosecuting cases, not determining guilt.
According to Uwuajeren, criminal trials in Nigeria are often lengthy because they involve the presentation of witnesses and documentary evidence, with final judgment resting solely with the courts.
“The trial is still ongoing, and we are presenting witnesses and evidence before the court,” he said. “It is not the EFCC that will decide the matter; it is the court. Our responsibility is to prosecute the charges diligently and ensure justice for both the prosecution and the defence.”
Uwuajeren further stressed that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees the presumption of innocence for anyone facing trial, regardless of their political standing or ambitions.
“Yahaya Bello’s party affairs or political aspirations have nothing to do with the case before the court,” he added.
“The EFCC has no interest in party politics. We are a law enforcement agency focused solely on enforcing the law and prosecuting cases. Nothing has gone wrong in the handling of this matter, and we remain committed to seeing justice done.”
The clarification comes as Bello continues to face prosecution even as he signals a possible political comeback ahead of the 2027 general elections.
