Indigenes of Kogi State and other Nigerians, under the aegis of the “Alliance For Emancipation and True Change,” staged a peaceful protest in the United Kingdom on Monday.
The protests was about addressing corruption allegations against former Governor Yahaya Bello. They called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) remains neutral and free from political interference.
The protesters expressed concerns that the EFCC’s actions appeared to be politically motivated, suggesting that the commission was being used to persecute political opponents. They emphasized the need for a fair and just prosecution process, adhering strictly to the rule of law, and condemned any alleged misuse of the EFCC to intimidate and harass individuals.
During the protest, Dr. Shaibu Ojogbane, Publicity Secretary of the Alliance For Emancipation and True Change, and Chukwunonso Ezeani, Director of Research & Public Affairs, reiterated their support for the government’s anti-corruption initiatives. However, they called for greater oversight to prevent selective justice and human rights abuses.
“The protest against the former Governor today, apparently sponsored by the Opposition in the state, indicates desperation on their part. We are aware that at least one of the opposition candidates is currently in London. Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello has restated his readiness to answer questions regarding his period of leadership in Kogi state; all he asks for is that the rule of law be adhered to, as it is glaring that in this particular case, the commission is serving the interest of some powerful Nigerians beyond the eye meets,” stated the group.
They urged President Tinubu to act swiftly to prevent the situation from escalating into widespread accusations of selective justice and human rights abuses. The group highlighted the importance of ensuring that the EFCC operates with integrity and impartiality to maintain the government’s reputation and credibility.
The protesters also pointed out that the opposition has continued to exploit the EFCC’s activities to malign Bello, even extending their efforts outside Nigeria by sponsoring ethnic onslaughts against him. They deemed it crucial to stage a peaceful protest in support of justice to prevent misinformation from misleading Nigerians.
