In a dramatic turn of events today, the immunity enjoyed by Yahaya Adoza Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, came to an end, marking what many are heralding as the conclusion of an era of what Mr. Jibrin Samuel Okutepa, SAN, referred to as “adolescent governance.”
Yahaya Bello ascended to power in 2015 following the unfortunate demise of Prince Abubakar Audu, and his leadership, according to Okutepa, has been characterized by a misuse of power and governance that resembled the handling of a personal estate rather than a state. Bello’s controversial rise continued in 2019, securing him a second term through what Okutepa describes as a “tatata brand of democracy.”
As Bello loses the shield of immunity with the expiration of his term, Attorney Okutepa wasted no time in calling for accountability, asserting that Bello must be held responsible for the alleged atrocities committed during his tenure. Okutepa points to a range of issues, from murders and oppressive governance to the promotion of ethnic agendas, appointment irregularities, and a lack of development.
The Attorney accuses Bello of fostering an environment of fear, intimidation, and an abuse of power, culminating in what he terms “genocide personified.” Okutepa suggests that Bello’s eight years in power witnessed the deposing of royal fathers, disregard for the law, and disrespect for traditional institutions.
According to Okutepa, Bello’s legacy is marred by the absence of tangible achievements. He added that the state witnessed the creation of poverty, non-payment of salaries, underdevelopment, and a lack of social amenities during his tenure. The attorney painted a grim picture of Kogi State under Bello’s governance, which he branded as a period of “ruthless governance” and “misadventures.”
Attorney Okutepa has consequently extended a warning to the law enforcement authorities to ensure that the former governor was held accountable for the resources of Kogi State, as the curtains fall on his immunity. The learned silk has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other security agencies to investigate and ensure that Bello faces the consequences of his actions.
Pleasantly, the post-immunity phase for Yahaya Bello is, shaping up to be a period of scrutiny and potential legal challenges. No doubt, the people of Kogi State, as well as all security agencies, will be closely watching as the former governor transitions from power to potential accountability for his actions during his tumultuous tenure.
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