The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has requested INTERPOL to place former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello on a watchlist in North African countries, including Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Sudan, and Algeria.

This decision by the EFCC is based on credible intelligence. Sources within the agency have mentioned various options to deal with the Bello situation. One of these options includes storming the Kogi State Government House in Lokoja, where Bello is believed to be hiding.

The watchlist was activated ahead of Bello’s expected appearance before a Federal High Court in Abuja on July 17th. He is facing a 19-count charge for alleged money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds amounting to about N80.2 billion.

Despite denying the allegations, Bello has consistently failed to appear before the trial judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, on June 13th and June 27th. At the last hearing, he filed an application to transfer his trial to the Federal High Court in Lokoja.

In preparation for the next hearing, the EFCC has implemented various measures, including placing Bello on a watchlist in North Africa. The EFCC received intelligence about a failed attempt by Bello to exit to Morocco via Cameroon. Determined to prevent him from going into exile, the EFCC Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, met with INTERPOL Heads in North Africa. He formally requested INTERPOL to issue a Red Alert for Bello, which was accepted. This watchlist is now in effect, and Bello will be arrested if found in any North African country.

The EFCC is taking this action to ensure Bello is present in court to prove his innocence and to prevent setting a bad precedent.