Kogi State indigenes and some Nigerians, under the banner of the “Alliance For Emancipation and True Change,” held a peaceful protest in the United Kingdom. They voiced their concerns over corruption allegations against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
The protesters called on President Bola Tinubu to step in and ensure that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) remains neutral and free from political influence.
The group claimed that the EFCC has given the impression of political persecution to both Nigerians and the international community. They stressed the need for a fair and just prosecution process that aligns with the rule of law and condemned the alleged use of the EFCC by politicians to intimidate and harass their opponents.
They warned against the politicization of the EFCC’s activities and called for a review of its operating procedures to ensure transparency and accountability.
During the protest, Dr. Shaibu Ojogbane, the Publicity Secretary of the Alliance For Emancipation and True Change, and Chukwunonso Ezeani, the Director of Research & Public Affairs, reiterated the alliance’s support for the government’s anti-corruption efforts. However, they also called for greater oversight to prevent selective justice and the abuse of human rights.
They urged the president to act quickly to prevent further damage to the government’s reputation and ensure that the EFCC operates with integrity and impartiality.
According to the protesters, the opposition has been using the activities of the anti-graft agency to malign Bello by sponsoring ethnic attacks against him, even outside the country.
The group said they felt it was important to stage a peaceful protest in the name of justice to ensure that Nigerians are not misled by a few individuals.
