The Kogi Youth Leaders Forum (KYLF) has strongly criticized those accusing Governor Usman Ododo of shielding his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, from prosecution. The group claims the allegations are politically motivated and urged that Ododo be allowed to focus on his gubernatorial responsibilities.
In a statement released on Tuesday, KYLF convener Benjamin Oguche asserted that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) trial of Bello has become a tool for political exploitation by opportunists.
Oguche described the allegations against Bello as “political witchcraft,” comparing it to the act of “giving a dog a bad name to kill it.” He further alleged that powerful forces, both within and outside Kogi State, are intent on undermining Bello.
“It is now clear from the malicious call of the Northern group that Yahaya Bello’s ordeal is not exactly determined by alleged money laundering. It is clearly political witchcraft, persecution, and giving a bad name to a dog just to kill it,” Oguche stated.
He emphasized that there should be no concern about Bello answering questions regarding his tenure, highlighting that accusations against Ododo for protecting Bello are baseless and aimed at distracting the governor.
“Accusing Ododo of protecting a man who has not escaped is not only childish but ridiculous. It is one of their many tricks to distract the governor with trifles and inconsistencies to achieve their nefarious ends,” Oguche added.
Oguche questioned the feasibility of the allegations, noting discrepancies in the 2016 Kogi State budget. “How big was the 2016 Kogi budget that the governor was accused of raking in over $80bn? For the avoidance of doubt, the state only received N39bn from FAAC in 2016. So, the makers of the hostile claim must prove where their alleged fund was stolen from.”
He concluded that the ongoing court proceedings against Bello have become a focal point for detractors, who are using the situation to further their agendas. “Since the matter is already in court dominating their discussion, it is only a mob against a man whose crime is nothing other than protecting the welfare of his people. Yahaya Bello is not the only politically influential person to be accused, but we continue to wonder why feathered elements seized on this to vent their pent-up anger.”
