Stop harassing Yahaya Bello, distracting Ododo, group warns EFCC

The Youth and Student Wing of the Odu Akowe Network group has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to stop harassing the former governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, and also refrain from distracting Governor Ahmed Ododo.

The spokesperson of the group, Comrade Noah Agada, made the call on Tuesday during a press conference organised in Lokoja to address the recent political happenings in Kogi State.

He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prevail on the EFCC to stop the constant harassment of the former governor, adding that no government and society can thrive in an atmosphere of distraction, rancour, and acrimony.

His words: “The activities of the EFCC regarding Kogi State in recent weeks and months are constantly hindering the peace and development of our dear state, impeding the focus of the Ododo administration and thereby hampering the progress of the state.

“The Odu Akowe Network, Youth and Student Wing, is therefore using this medium to urge the federal government, led by our humble Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to call the EFCC to order and refrain from distracting our Governor Usman Ododo and former Governor Yahaya Bello with inquiries into alleged infractions. Instead, they should allow the current governor to focus on his duties.

“The constant scrutiny of the past administration by the EFCC, masterminded by persons who are out to score personal political gains with the intent to persecute rather than prosecute the former governor, is hindering the present administration from being purposeful and effective. Let’s prioritise the future and development of our state.

“It is pertinent to note some of the achievements of former Governor Yahaya Bello’s contributions to state and national development. He was at the forefront of the 2023 presidential election. Even after losing his bid for the presidency, he wore the garment of a sportsman, campaigned for the APC, and led the youth structures to galvanise support for this government. If this is how loyalty and stewardship are rewarded, it is a direct signal to us, the youth, that there’s no reward system. This is because, from all indications, former Gov. Bello is being paid in a negative manner, having contributed handsomely to the APC victory in the 2023 general election.”

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In light of the aforementioned, the group called on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the National Party Chairman, democratic institutions, opinion leaders, and men of goodwill to wade into this unprofessional conduct displayed thus far by the anti-graft agency.

“The President and the party should also note that ‘he who is silent in the face of oppression is an accomplice to oppression.’ We urge the federal government to focus on attracting more development to our state rather than allowing anti-graft agencies to constantly harass our governor. It’s time to shift the focus from investigation to innovation and progress. We suggest considering implementing business-attraction programs that have worked for other states, such as offering tax credits and incentives, building a strong business development team, and relentlessly focusing on performance and evaluation. By working together, we can create a more prosperous future for our state and its citizens; let’s make it happen.

“The Odu Akowe Network is also urging the government at all levels and the EFCC to, rather than chase shadows that will only deplete the resources of government at all levels, continue to prioritise policies aimed at developing our nation’s youth toward propelling our country forward. The future of our dear nation rests on the shoulders of our young people, and it is crucial that we provide them with the necessary tools and support to succeed,” he stated.