EFCC Takes Firm Action Against Yahaya Bello and Sirika Over Alleged Frauds

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) intensified its efforts to prosecute former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and ex-Minister of Aviation Hadi Sirika for alleged misappropriation of public funds.

Bello, accused of embezzling approximately N80 billion from the Kogi treasury, faces charges including money laundering and breach of trust.

Despite conflicting court orders, EFCC obtained permission to arrest Bello from the Federal High Court in Abuja. However, during his planned arraignment, Bello failed to appear, prompting EFCC’s Chairman Ola Olukoyede to vow to prosecute him to a logical conclusion.

Olukoyede disclosed that Bello withdrew $720,000 from government accounts to pay for his child’s school fees in advance.

Additionally, Sirika faced questioning over alleged N8 billion Nigeria Air fraud, accused of awarding contracts to his brother’s company while aware of his civil servant status.

The EFCC investigation spans both ministries, aiming to uncover systemic corruption.