The long-anticipated arrest of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has sent shockwaves across the political landscape of Nigeria. After months of evading arrest, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has finally apprehended the ex-governor, once referred to as the “White Lion” due to his fearsome political reputation. His capture, which many thought would never come, has been seen as a significant victory for the Nigerian justice system. However, Unekwu Ocheje, a prominent Kogi-born politician and former New Media Secretary to Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 gubernatorial election, has voiced a mixture of cautious optimism and skepticism regarding the ongoing developments.
In a recent statement, Ocheje expressed relief at the capture of the former governor, noting that Kogi State had suffered under what he described as “an era of stagnation, fear, and political manipulation.” According to Ocheje, the state endured a dark chapter where the populace felt oppressed under the leadership of Yahaya Bello. His administration was marked by allegations of widespread corruption, abuse of power, and disregard for democratic processes. Ocheje, who has been vocal about the need for change in Kogi, believes that the capture of the “White Lion” could serve as a turning point for the state, but he urged the EFCC to ensure thorough and transparent investigations.
“We have known Nigeria too well. Sometimes, things that seem obvious are shrouded in doubt, leaving us to wonder whether this is the usual political game or a real attempt at justice. While we are pleased to see the former governor finally in custody, there is a lingering suspicion about the motives behind such actions. However, we will continue to watch closely,” Ocheje said.
He went on to emphasize the importance of keeping power in check and ensuring that those who abuse it face the full consequences of their actions. “This is a governor who used the law to his advantage and began abusing it the moment he left office. We cannot allow men like him or those who served under him to return to power,” Ocheje warned.
Ocheje also called for the EFCC to “clean and clear” Kogi State and Nigeria as a whole, stating that the actions of corrupt leaders have eroded public trust in the system. “We hope this serves as a lesson to those behind him, trying to learn from his mistakes, that power must be used for the greater good of the people,” Ocheje added.
Kogi State, under Yahaya Bello’s leadership, had become synonymous with political strife and stagnation. From allegations of financial mismanagement to reports of systemic intimidation, Bello’s tenure raised numerous questions about the integrity of governance in the state. Ocheje and many others are now calling for accountability and a reestablishment of the rule of law.
As Nigerians eagerly await the outcome of the EFCC’s investigation and subsequent trial, Ocheje’s plea resonates: “Let this be the beginning of a new dawn for Kogi and Nigeria. No abuser of power should ever be allowed to wield influence again. Kogi deserves better, and Nigeria deserves better.”
The arrest of Yahaya Bello marks a critical moment in the nation’s ongoing fight against corruption. It is a reminder that no one, no matter their political stature, is above the law. As the EFCC continues its investigation, Nigerians, especially Kogites, are watching closely, hopeful that this case will set a precedent for other corrupt leaders who may still believe they are untouchable.
Stay tuned for further developments as the EFCC works to bring justice to the people of Kogi State and Nigeria.
