Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive for the removal of all police officers assigned to former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.
This move follows Bello’s legal challenges and his placement on the Nigerian Immigration Service watchlist.
The order, transmitted via a police wireless message, underscores the importance of strict adherence to the withdrawal of security personnel allocated to Bello.
The document read in part, “IG has ordered the withdrawal of all policemen attached to His Excellency and former Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.
“Acknowledge compliance and treat with utmost importance. Please, above, for your information and strict compliance.”
The decision follows the Economic and Financial Crimes Comission’s declaration of Bello as wanted in connection to a money laundering case totalling N80.2 billion.
In addition to the police withdrawal, the Nigerian Immigration Service placed Bello on its watchlist, directing border officials to arrest and refer him to the Director of Investigation if sighted at any entry or exit point.
The EFCC had earlier declared Bello wanted and was granted a warrant of arrest by a Federal High Court in Abuja.
Efforts by the EFCC to apprehend Bello were foiled by the current Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, and his security team escorting Bello away from his residence.