During an interactive session with media executives in Abuja, Ola Olukoyede, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), made startling revelations about Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State. Olukoyede disclosed that Bello withdrew a staggering $720,000 from the state's funds to prepay his child's school fees.

According to Olukoyede, Bello orchestrated the transfer of state funds directly to a bureau de change operator, utilizing the money for advance payment of his child's education expenses. This brazen act, executed under the guise of preparing for his impending exit from office, raised serious concerns about financial mismanagement, especially in a state like Kogi known for its economic challenges.

Expressing his dismay at the situation, Olukoyede emphasized the absurdity of turning a blind eye to such flagrant misuse of public resources, particularly given the socioeconomic context of Kogi State. He reiterated his commitment to upholding accountability, regardless of any external pressures or allegations of being manipulated.

Highlighting the institutional continuity of the investigation, Olukoyede clarified that he inherited the case file concerning the former governor and did not instigate the probe against Bello.

However, recent developments have escalated the situation, with EFCC operatives laying siege to Bello's residence in Abuja on April 17, in connection to alleged fraudulent activities totaling N80 billion.

The EFCC's allegations extend beyond Bello, implicating Alli Bello, the chief of staff to Governor Ododo, and Daudu Suleiman in diverting substantial funds belonging to the Kogi State government. These accusations underscore the depth of the investigation and the widespread ramifications of corruption within the state's administration.