Former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has advised his Kogi State counterpart, Yahaya Bello, to present himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) amid allegations of money laundering.
Ortom’s counsel comes in the wake of EFCC’s declaration of Bello as wanted last week for his alleged involvement in misappropriating over N80 billion during his tenure as Kogi State governor.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service organized by his former appointees to commemorate his 63rd birthday at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Regional Headquarters in Makurdi on Sunday, Ortom emphasized the importance of accountability and cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
He urged Bello not to tarnish the reputation of former governors, stressing the need for compliance with EFCC’s inquiries and legal processes.
Ortom stated, “If you are called to come and account for your stewardship by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, go there. You do not need to hide from EFCC; you do not need to resist arrest or anything. Go there and explain.”
Expressing his unsuccessful attempts to reach Bello directly, Ortom underscored the significance of Bello’s response to the allegations, urging him to heed the call and cooperate with EFCC investigators.
