EFCC Rejects Yahaya Bello's Grand Entrance: Why Protocol Matters

Razaq Ivori

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has made it clear that no Nigerian, regardless of status, is above the law. Recently, former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello's dramatic arrival at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja was rejected due to a breach of protocol ¹ ².

Bello's entourage, which included a sitting governor and other dignitaries, raised eyebrows at the EFCC. The commission's executive chairman directed that no official attend to Bello, citing that his grand entrance was contrary to their procedures ¹ ².

*The Issues with Bello's Approach*

- _Immunity Complications_: Bello's presence with the governor, who has immunity, complicated the matter, allowing him to skip crucial documentation procedures ¹ ².

- _Unauthorized Accompaniment_: The EFCC didn't invite the governor, raising questions about his role in the case ¹ ².

- _Protocol Breach_: Bello was expected to arrive with his lawyer, not a governor or Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) ¹ ².

- _Pre-emptive Propaganda_: The EFCC was unhappy with Bello's team spreading false impressions that he was already in custody ¹ ².

The EFCC emphasizes that everyone must undergo due process, regardless of status. Bello's case is ongoing, with the commission focused on upholding the law without political influence ³ ⁴ ⁵.