KOGI YOUTHS PROTEST EFCC’S PLANNED ARREST OF YAHAYA BELLO

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A few young people in Kogi State have voiced their opposition to the Economic and Financial Crime Commission’s (EFCC) intended arrest of former governor Yahaya Bello.

The former Kogi governor is being prosecuted by the anti-graft agency for allegedly committing an 80.2 billion-naira fraud.

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Under the direction of the Africa Youths Coalition for Justice and the Coalition of Civil Society for Democracy, the young people assembled in their hundreds and blocked the Lokoja-Abuja Road, causing traffic jams on the federal route.

“President Tinubu, call the EFCC to order,” “EFCC, stop witch hunting,” and “Yahaya Bello remains a responsible citizen” were among the placards they were seen carrying.

Richard Otitoleke, the coalition convener, told reporters in Lokoja that the groups were there to defend democratic governance and the rule of law.

In Bello’s trial, he urged prudence and loyalty to the law.

The youth leader emphasised that there is an interim restraining order of the court of competent jurisdiction that explicitly states that the former governor should not be invited, arrested, or prosecuted until the matter pertaining to his human rights is resolved. The youth leader described the rule of law as the defining characteristic of a democratic society.

He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to look into the EFCC’s operations immediately to make sure they are professional and compliant with Federal Republic of Nigeria legislation as it stands.

A protester named Oluwa-Kayode Emmanuel charged that the EFCC was holding a media trial of the former governor.