The Odu Akowe Network Group (OANG) has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and put a stop to the alleged harassment of former Kogi State governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The group expressed concerns that the EFCC’s actions are not only targeting the former governor but are also distracting the current Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, from effectively governing the state.

Speaking at a press conference in Lokoja on Tuesday, the group’s spokesperson, Comrade Noah Agada, urged President Tinubu to instruct the EFCC to refrain from activities that could derail the progress of the Ododo administration.

His words: “The activities of the EFCC in recent weeks and months regarding Kogi State have created an atmosphere of distraction, rancour, and acrimony, which is hindering peace and development in the state.

Agada said. “Governor Ododo is facing unnecessary challenges due to these ongoing inquiries into the alleged infractions of the previous administration, which are politically motivated. This distraction is hampering the progress of the state.”

Agada accused certain political figures of using the EFCC as a tool for personal political gain, rather than allowing the anti-graft agency to focus on legitimate issues.

He argued that the continuous scrutiny of Yahaya Bello’s administration is preventing the current government from being purposeful and effective, calling for a shift in focus towards the future and development of Kogi State.

“The EFCC’s scrutiny, masterminded by individuals seeking political advantage, is more about persecution than prosecution. This constant harassment is a distraction to Governor Ododo’s administration, which needs a clear focus on development,” Agada added.

The Odu Akowe Network Group further urged the federal government, the APC leadership, and other democratic institutions to step in and stop what they described as the “unprofessional conduct” of the EFCC towards Yahaya Bello.

Agada further stated that the government should focus on attracting development to Kogi State instead of allowing anti-graft agencies to continuously disrupt governance.

“We urge the federal government to work towards creating a prosperous future for Kogi State and its citizens by shifting focus from investigations to driving progress and innovation,” Agada concluded.