Stop harassing Yahaya Bello and distracting Ododo, EFCC warns — Politics — The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News

The youth and student wing of Odu Akowe Network has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to stop harassing former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, and also desist from distracting Governor Ahmed Ododo.

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

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

His words: “The activities of the EFCC regarding Kogi State over the past few weeks and months are constantly hampering the peace and development of our dear state, hampering 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 desist from distracting our Governor Usman Ododo and former Governor Yahaya Bello are investigating alleged offenses. Rather, they should allow the current governor to concentrate on his duties.

“The constant scrutiny of the previous administration by the EFCC, led by people who seek personal political gains with the aim of persecuting rather than prosecuting the former governor, prevents the current administration from being determined and efficient. Let us prioritize the future and development of our state.

“It is pertinent to note some of the achievements relating to the contributions of former Governor Yahaya Bello to the development of the state and the country. He was leading the 2023 presidential election. Even after losing his presidential bid, he wore sportsmanship, campaigned for the APC and led youth structures to galvanize support for this government. If this is how loyalty and stewardship are rewarded, it is a direct signal to us young people that there is no reward system. Indeed, there is every reason to believe that former Governor Bello is being negatively paid, having contributed significantly to the victory of the APC in the 2023 general elections.”

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In light of the above, the group called on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Chairman of the National Party, democratic institutions, opinion leaders and men of good will to intervene in this unprofessional conduct displayed so far by the anti-corruption agency.

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

“The Odu Akowe Network also urges government at all levels and the EFCC, rather than chasing shadows that will only drain the resources of government at all levels, to continue to prioritize policies aimed at developing the youth of our country in order to propel our country forward. The future of our beloved nation rests on the shoulders of our youth, and it is crucial that we provide them with the tools and support to succeed,” he said.