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 competent jurisdiction, stressing that his ongoing trial does not amount to a conviction.
The clarification comes amid public reactions to reports of Bello’s intention to contest the Kogi Central Senatorial seat in 2027, despite facing corruption charges.
Bello is currently standing trial before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, over alleged diversion and misappropriation of ₦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 Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Wilson Uwuajeren, explained that criminal prosecution in Nigeria is a gradual legal process that requires the presentation of witnesses and evidence, with only the court empowered to determine guilt or innocence.
“The trial is still ongoing before the court. We are presenting witnesses and evidence. It is not the EFCC that will decide the matter; it is the court,” Uwuajeren said.
He noted that the 1999 Constitution guarantees the presumption of innocence for anyone standing trial, adding that Bello’s political ambitions or activities within his party have no bearing on the charges filed against him.
“As we speak, Yahaya Bello is under trial, but the Constitution presumes anyone under trial to be innocent until proven guilty. Whatever happens to him within his party is strictly party business and has nothing to do with the EFCC,” he stated.
Uwuajeren emphasised that the EFCC has no interest in partisan politics and remains solely focused on enforcing the law.
“The EFCC is not a political party. We are not interested in politics. We are a law enforcement agency, and our responsibility is to faithfully prosecute the charges before the court,” he said.
He further reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to due process, assuring that the prosecution is being handled professionally and in line with the law.
“Nothing has gone amiss in the prosecution of this matter. We are committed to ensuring that justice is served in accordance with the law,” Uwuajeren added.
