The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, affirmed his commitment to ensuring the prosecution of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, reaches a conclusive end.

Speaking to journalists at the EFCC Headquarters in the Jabi area of Abuja on Tuesday, Olukoyede stated unequivocally that he would resign from his position as EFCC chairman if Bello is not prosecuted.

He emphasized that those who obstructed the arrest of the former governor would face consequences, asserting the agency’s unwavering dedication to upholding the rule of law and combating corruption.

The EFCC is seeking to arraign Bello on 19 counts related to alleged money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of funds totaling N80.2 billion.

Olukoyede underscored the agency’s reliance on public support, emphasizing that its success is pivotal for the country’s progress. He credited ongoing efforts with positively impacting the value of the Naira and foreign exchange markets.

Meanwhile, the EFCC has served a copy of the charge sheet for alleged fraud amounting to N80 billion to Bello’s lawyer, Abdulwahab Mohamed. This action follows a court order issued by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja after Bello failed to appear in court for his arraignment.

Justice Nwite invoked legal provisions enabling substituted service when personal service becomes impractical. Bello’s lawyer initially resisted accepting the charges but was compelled to do so by the court.

Bello’s legal team argued against the ex-parte order of arrest, citing concerns about fair hearing and justice. They maintained that Bello was prepared to answer the charges but urged the court to set aside the warrant of arrest issued against him.

In response, counsel to the EFCC, Kemi Phinheiro, urged the court to uphold the warrant until Bello presents himself for trial, dismissing claims of illegality against the agency.

Last week, Justice Nwite issued a bench warrant against Bello following repeated absences from court proceedings. The EFCC subsequently declared him wanted for evading criminal charges.