The Movement for the Emancipation of Kogi State (MEKSTA), commend the Judiciary of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for its forthrightness, fearlessness and commitment to justice in the criminal proceedings involving Mr. Yahaya Bello, the immediate past Governor of Kogi State.
The leaders of MEKSTA in a statement said:
“We note that, between the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Maitama, Abuja, and the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, lawful and just processes are being followed in the N110 billion fraud case against Bello. We particularly welcome the Appeal Court’s concurrence with the earlier seizure of properties valued at N80 billion — properties shown to have been procured with public funds — as ordered by the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, in February 2023. We also note that the Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled further hearings on the N110 billion case for October and November 2025.
Against concerted efforts to discredit the judiciary, MEKSTA reaffirms its confidence in a justice system capable of acting dispassionately and objectively.
We are concerned that, fearing a just outcome, some agents have launched a media campaign aimed at undermining the proceedings. That campaign seeks to portray Mr. Bello as indispensable to the presidential reelection effort, apparently with the intent of provoking presidential interference for political expediency. There have also been reports suggesting that Bello is leveraging contacts close to the Presidency to secure the termination or indefinite adjournment of the relevant cases.
While we recognize President Bola Tinubu’s strong convictions, we respectfully urge him to allow the law to run its course without interference. This is essential for fairness to the people of Kogi State, for justice, and for the integrity of the presidential office.
In the 26‑year trajectory of the Fourth Republic, no governor has been arraigned for defrauding a state on a scale approaching the allegations in this N110 billion matter. Even when compared with past prosecutions of former governors such as Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, James Ibori, Joshua Dariye, and Jolly Nyame, the sums alleged here are of a different magnitude.
MEKSTA recalls the severe pauperisation inflicted on Kogi State during Mr. Bello’s eight‑year rule. Reports indicate continued patronage practices that enrich a few while ordinary citizens and public servants suffer. Basic facilities and logistics are lacking in the civil service; judges and magistrates have been reported to rely on public transport. The State House of Assembly has reportedly failed to act independently, routinely passing executive bills.
We urge Mr. President to maintain neutrality in these matters and to allow the judiciary to do its work. Kogi State must be freed from any culture of intimidation and impunity. The people will support leaders whose policies and actions genuinely uplift the state — not those who rely on violence or bribery to secure influence.
We congratulate President Tinubu on his efforts to revive Kogi’s economy, including attention to the Ajaokuta Steel Project and appointments that recognize the state’s political heritage. We believe his success will be better assured if he distances his administration from individuals whose actions undermine the rule of law.
Signed:
1. Hon. Obafemi Medaiyese — Yagba Federal Constituency
2. Comrade Joseph Mebatonije — Kabba‑Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency
3. Alhaji Yusuf Kpareke — Lokoja/Kotonkarfe Federal Constituency
4. Mallam Jimoh Ozovehe — Adavi/Okehi Federal Constituency
5. Dr. Nurudeen Adaviriku — Okene/Ogori‑Magongo
6. Alhaji Isiaka Momoh — Ajaokuta Federal Constituency
7. Chief Ojonimi Adegbe — Idah/Igalamela/Ofu Federal Constituency
8. Pastor Mark Onucheyo — Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency
9. Bishop Husseini Saidu — Ankpa/Omala/Olamaboro Federal Constituency
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