“Whoever wants to probably attack my towering name and integrity, because of 2023 is making a mistake. Because fighting corruption should ordinarily have nothing to do with political affiliation or political interest. So I wouldn’t want to say that because of 2023 I am being targeted. If you are targeting me because of 2023, it is a big mistake. You will not be able to get me.”
These are the response of Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State to a question by newsmen at the Presidential villa, Abuja, as to the possible damage to his acclaimed presidential ambition for the 2023 election, by recent freezing of state government account by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) over issue of alleged financial mishaps.
The governor said: “for 2023, I still say it is in the hands of God Almighty. Nigerians: millions, men, women, youth are all yearning that I should contest for 2023. There are still time to give an appropriate answer when the time comes. And I believe that when the time comes, we are going to give a very wonderful response that will satisfy Nigerians.”
Responding to a question on his present opinion about the EFCC chairman, Bawa, who he had earlier congratulated when he was appointed by President Buhari, Yahaya Bello said that it is too early now to say that he is disappointed in him (Bawa).
He said the EFCC’s claim of N20 billion bail-out in deposit account in the state is an allegation which the state government had responded to.
We are waiting for their own reaction to our response so far.
“But I want to believe that those who may have orchestrated that phantom lie should be brought to justice as soon as possible, so that the good name that EFCC has earned will continue to tower high. “So, I will continue to urge him, that is Bawa, to continue to do very wonderful job he has started. He shouldn’t allow anybody to use him, for whatever reason, and I don’t think he will allow anybody to use him for political vendetta.
“He is a young man and has a very long way to go.”
