EFCC Says Yahaya Bello Remains Innocent Until Proven Guilty as Trial Continues

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified that former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, remains innocent in the eyes of the law until a competent court delivers a verdict on the charges against him, stressing that his trial is still ongoing.

The Commission emphasised that it is not the role of the EFCC to determine guilt or innocence, but the exclusive responsibility of the judiciary, as provided under Nigeria’s constitutional framework.

EFCC Explains Status of Ongoing Trial

Speaking on Monday while appearing on Arise Television’s Morning Show, the EFCC Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwuajeren, explained that criminal prosecution in Nigeria is a process that requires time, diligence, and strict adherence to legal procedures.

According to him, Akahi News gathered that the Commission is currently presenting witnesses and tendering evidence before the court, adding that the outcome of the case will be determined solely by the judge handling the matter.

Uwuajeren noted that delays or prolonged timelines in criminal trials should not be misconstrued as weakness or bias, describing them instead as part of the due process required to ensure fairness to all parties involved.

Presumption of Innocence Under the Constitution

Reaffirming the constitutional position, Uwuajeren stressed that anyone standing trial in Nigeria is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.

“Yahaya Bello, as we speak, is under trial, but the Constitution presumes that anyone who is under trial is innocent until that case is proven,” he said.

Akahi News learnt that the EFCC believes this principle is fundamental to justice and must be respected regardless of public opinion or political developments surrounding an accused person.

EFCC Distances Itself from Party Politics

Addressing issues relating to Bello’s standing within his political party, the EFCC spokesperson made it clear that the Commission has no interest in party affairs or political considerations.

According to Uwuajeren, whatever actions a political party may take concerning Bello are entirely internal matters and have no connection to the charges filed against him by the anti-graft agency.

“The EFCC is not a political party. We are not interested in politics,” he said, adding that the Commission’s sole responsibility is to enforce the law and faithfully prosecute cases before the courts.

Commitment to Fairness and Justice

Uwuajeren further reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to ensuring justice for both the prosecution and the defence, insisting that nothing has gone amiss in the handling of the case.

He explained that the Commission’s duty to Nigeria is to diligently pursue the charges it has filed, present its evidence transparently, and allow the court to reach an independent and lawful decision.

Observers note that the EFCC’s comments appear aimed at addressing public misconceptions about the trial, while reinforcing confidence in the rule of law and the integrity of Nigeria’s judicial process.

As proceedings continue, Akahi News will keep monitoring developments in the case and provide verified updates as they unfold.

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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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