The North Central Progressive Voice, a sociocultural group, has written an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing concern over the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) recent actions against former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello.
The group, led by Comrade Umar Gambo, held a press conference and solidarity walk in Minna, Niger State, before submitting the letter to former President Ibrahim Babangida for onward transmission to President Tinubu.
The letter, dated April 27, 2024, highlights the group’s commitment to upholding judicial independence and civil society.
It recounts the EFCC’s raid on Bello’s home on April 17, 2024, and expresses concern over potential violations of constitutional principles and the rule of law.
The group criticizes the EFCC’s decision to secure an arrest warrant from another court while an appeal was pending, emphasizing the importance of due process and respect for judicial authority.
Despite the EFCC’s recent withdrawal of the appeal, the group remains disappointed and embarrassed by the commission’s actions.
Legal experts have also condemned the EFCC’s handling of the case, stressing the importance of obeying court orders.
The letter urges President Tinubu to use his experience to address the EFCC’s unjust attempt to arrest Bello in defiance of a standing court order, hold the EFCC accountable, and prevent further violations of Bello’s civil rights.
In conclusion, the North Central Progressive Voice appeals to President Tinubu to intervene and ensure the EFCC respects the rule of law and upholds due process in its actions against Yahaya Bello.
