Ex-governor Yahaya Bello is now on watchlist- FG

The immediate former governor of Kogi state has been added to the Federal Government’s watchlist, allowing security services across the nation and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to detain him at any point of entry or departure.

This was revealed in a document sent to various security stakeholders, including the director general of the Department of State Services, the inspector general of police, and the director general of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), by Kemi Nanna Nandap, comptroller general of the Immigration Service.

The ex-governor’s international passport data were revealed in the memo, which was signed by ACI DS Umar.

“I am directed to inform you that the above named person has been placed on watch list,” the memo states in part.

“Suffice to mention that the subject is being prosecuted before the Federal High Court Abuja for Conspiracy, Breach of Trust and Money Laundering vide letter Ref; CR; 3000/EFCC/LS/EGCS.1/TE/V1/279 dated 18 April 2024. If seen at any entry or exit point, he should be arrested and referred to the Director of Investigation or contact 08036226329/07039617304 for further action.

“Please accept as always the Comptroller General warmest regards and esteem”.

Similar to this, Bello was proclaimed sought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday due to financial and economic offences.

Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello is wanted by the EFCC for offences related to economic and financial crimes totaling N80.2 billion, according to a statement posted on the organization’s official Facebook page.

“Anybody with information as to his whereabout should report immediately to the commission or the nearest police station,” the EFCC said.

Vanguard reported on Wednesday that the anti-graft agency’s officials besieged the former governor’s residence in Abuja to effect his residence.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo came with his security operatives and whisked him away from the grasp of the EFCC.