The withdrawal of police personnel comes after Bello evaded arrest on Wednesday when EFCC operatives laid a siege to his Abuja home.
By Jeffrey Agbo
Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has withdrawn all police personnel attached to the former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.
The withdrawal order was contained in a police wireless message which the news media got hold of on Friday.
The message reads, “IG has ordered the withdrawal of all policemen attached to His Excellency and former Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.
“Acknowledge compliance and treat with utmost importance. Please, above, for your information and strict compliance.”
The withdrawal of police personnel comes after Bello evaded arrest on Wednesday when operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) laid a siege to his Abuja home.
A group of armed men identified as ‘Special Forces’ along with some police personnel intervened to prevent the EFCC operatives from apprehending Bello.
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Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo’s security team reportedly escorted Bello out of the location in the governor’s vehicle.
However, the EFCC on Thursday declared Bello wanted in connection to an alleged case of money laundering to the tune of N80.2bn.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has also placed the former governor on its watchlist.
A circular from the NIS dated April 18, 2024, and signed by the assistant comptroller of immigration, DS Umar, for the comptroller-general Kemi Nandap detailed the name, nationality, and passport number of the former governor.
“I am directed to inform you that the above-named person has been placed on the watch list,” the circular read.
“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/Vide/1/279 dated April 18, 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.”