The coalition of civil society group, along with the Northern Patriotic Front, have called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to abide by a recent High Court ruling from Lokoja, which prohibits the commission from apprehending former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.
During a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, Salmon Salami, a media consultant representing the coalition, emphasized the importance of the EFCC complying with the directive issued by a competent jurisdiction. Salami highlighted that the crux of the matter pertains to the fundamental human rights of the former Governor as a Nigerian citizen, underscoring the necessity for the commission to adhere to the court’s decision.
In contrast to speculations propagated by the media, Salami clarified that Yahaya Bello is not a criminal and therefore has no reason to evade authorities.
He further asked, “If the judiciary really is the hope of the common man then why the media trial of Yahaya Bello by the EFCC. Is this obtainable in a democratic dispensation?”
“We urge the EFCC to honor the existing court order from a competent jurisdiction, which restrains them from arresting the former Governor”.
“The EFCC should refrain from conducting media trials and instead focus on seeking to nullify the court ruling. Until such measures are taken, it is imperative that the fundamental human rights of the former Governor are respected and upheld,” Salami concluded.
