CSO urges IGP to arrest Yahaya Bello within 14 days

A civil society organization, Centre for Social and Economic Rights (CSER), has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, demanding the arrest of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.

CSER accused Bello of flouting court orders and claims that police officers have been complicit in his evasion of justice, thereby undermining the integrity of the Nigerian legal system.

The group’s ultimatum is in response to allegations that Bello misappropriated over N100 billion during his eight-year tenure as governor.

Despite a bench warrant issued for his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the former governor has reportedly continued to evade capture, with CSER asserting that security personnel have provided him protection instead of facilitating his arrest.

In a strongly worded letter addressed to the IGP, CSER’s Executive Director, Nelson Ekujumi, articulated the gravity of the situation.

He reminded the IGP of his dual role as a board member of the EFCC, emphasizing that he has a legal obligation to ensure the arrest of individuals declared wanted by the courts.

The letter highlighted the embarrassment that Bello’s actions had brought to Nigeria, both domestically and internationally, and calls for immediate action.

“Upon the application to the High Court by the EFCC for an arrest of the former Governor, the said application was granted, and an Order for his Arrest was issued by the Court,” the letter stated.

It further detailed the Court of Appeal’s unanimous judgment confirming that Bello was aware of the charges against him yet failed to appear in court, prompting the issuance of an arrest warrant.

CSER alleged that police officers had actively hindered the EFCC’s attempts to apprehend Bello, raising serious concerns about the integrity and effectiveness of law enforcement in Nigeria.

The body questioned the relevance of the IGP’s membership on the EFCC board if he could not facilitate the arrest of a wanted individual, asserting that it is unacceptable for police officers to protect someone who has been declared wanted by the judiciary.

In light of these circumstances, CSER has firmly stated that if the IGP did not comply with their demands within the stipulated time frame, they would pursue legal action against him.

This action will include seeking a court order of mandamus to compel the police to fulfill their statutory obligations and ensure that Yahaya Bello is brought to justice.

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