Immigration Places Yahaya Bello on Watchlist As EFCC Declares Him Wanted

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has placed Yahaya Bello, the immediate past governor of Kogi State, on a watchlist.

This comes after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) declared Bello wanted for an alleged case of money laundering to the tune of N80.2 billion.

A letter dated April 18, 2024, from the NIS addressed to the Department of State Services, the Inspector-General of Police, and other security agencies, states that Bello is being prosecuted before the Federal High Court Abuja for conspiracy, breach of trust, and money laundering.

The letter instructs law enforcement agencies to arrest Bello if he is seen at any entry or exit point in Nigeria.

Bello’s arraignment was reportedly unsuccessful because he did not appear in court.

The EFCC had requested that all security agencies place Bello on a watchlist to prevent him from leaving the country.