Northern youth groups are continuing their regional tour
to protest what they see as unfair treatment of former Kogi State governor,
Yahaya Bello, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The Northern Youth Movement for Good Governance and
Democratic Values and the North Central Progressive Voice have united for the
“Northern Nigeria Solidarity Walk and World Press Conference.” These groups
gathered in Yola and Maiduguri on Thursday and Friday, respectively.
During their stop over in Yola, the groups held a press
conference and visited the Lamido of Adamawa, HRH Alhaji Mohammed Barkindo
Aliyu Mustapha, at his palace. They presented an open letter addressed to
President Bola Tinubu, requesting the royal father to convey their concerns to
the president.
The letter emphasizes the groups' commitment to
maintaining the independence of the judiciary and civil society. It details the
events of April 17, 2024, when the EFCC raided Yahaya Bello’s home over alleged
money laundering charges. The groups expressed concern about the EFCC’s
actions, suggesting they might violate constitutional principles and the rule
of law.
The letter references a court order from the Lokoja High Court dated February 9, 2024, which barred the EFCC from arresting or prosecuting Yahaya Bello. Despite this, the EFCC appealed the decision and sought a warrant for Bello’s arrest from another court while the appeal was pending. The groups criticized this move, stressing the importance of due process and respect for judicial authority.
.png)
No comments:
Post a Comment