The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has stated that former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, should be regarded as innocent until a court of law rules otherwise.

According to the Commission, Bello’s case is still before the court, and it is not the duty of the EFCC to determine guilt or innocence. That responsibility, the agency stressed, rests solely with the judiciary.

The clarification comes amid public backlash following Bello’s announcement of his intention to contest the Kogi Central senatorial seat in the 2027 elections.

Bello is currently facing trial before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, over allegations of diverting and misappropriating ₦80.2 billion in Kogi State funds during his tenure as governor.

Speaking on Monday during an appearance on Arise Television’s *Morning Show*, the EFCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwuajeren, explained that criminal trials in Nigeria are often lengthy, as they require the presentation of witnesses and evidence before the court.

Uwuajeren said the Commission is actively prosecuting the case and has continued to present evidence and witnesses, noting that the final verdict will be delivered by the court, not the EFCC.

He emphasized that Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees the presumption of innocence for anyone standing trial, adding that Bello’s political ambitions or status within his party have no bearing on the charges against him.

According to him, the EFCC has no involvement in party politics and remains focused solely on diligently prosecuting the case before the court. He assured that the Commission is committed to ensuring fairness to both the prosecution and the defence, stressing that the case is being handled properly.

Uwuajeren further explained that delays in criminal trials are part of due process, reiterating that the EFCC’s role is to faithfully pursue the charges it has filed.

He maintained that whatever actions Bello’s political party takes concerning him are internal party matters and unrelated to the EFCC’s mandate.

“The EFCC is not a political organization,” he said, adding that the agency’s sole responsibility is law enforcement and ensuring that justice is served.