By Owodunni Rasheed Adekunle


Yahaya Bello, the controversial former Governor of Kogi State, seems to have taken a page from the playbook of former Senate President Bukola Saraki when it comes to evading lawful custody.

Despite facing numerous allegations and legal troubles, Bello has managed to avoid accountability, much like Saraki did during his time in office.

Both Bello and Saraki have been accused of various offenses, ranging from corruption to abuse of power, manipulating standing laws among many.

However, instead of facing the consequences of their actions, they have employed similar tactics to evade lawful custody and accountability.

One of the key strategies employed by both politicians is to exploit legal loopholes and delay tactics.

Bello, like Saraki, has utilized his influence and resources to hire top-notch legal teams to drag out legal proceedings, ensuring that cases against him remain in limbo for as long as possible.

Another tactic is to politicize the legal process, turning it into a battle of political wills rather than a quest for justice. Bello, much like Saraki, has consistently accused his opponents of launching politically motivated attacks against him, painting himself as a victim of persecution rather than a perpetrator of wrongdoing.

Furthermore, both Bello and Saraki have mastered the art of public relations, using media campaigns and public appearances to shape public opinion in their favor by controlling the narrative and portraying themselves as innocent victims. They have managed to sway public opinion and create doubt about the legitimacy of the charges against them.

Additionally, both politicians have exploited their positions of power to influence law enforcement agencies and judicial processes.

Bello, like Saraki, has allegedly used his control over state institutions to manipulate investigations and intimidate witnesses, further complicating the legal proceedings against him. Despite facing mounting evidence and public outcry, Bello and Saraki have managed to remain largely untouched by the law, raising serious questions about the effectiveness of Nigeria's justice system and the impunity with which corrupt politicians operate.

In conclusion, the parallels between Yahaya Bello and Bukola Saraki in their methods of evading lawful custody are striking. Both have used legal manoeuvring, political influence, and public relations to shield themselves from accountability, highlighting the need for comprehensive reforms to ensure that no one is above the law in Nigeria.

How far can both of them run? Time will tell.

*Owodunni Rasheed Adekunle write from Ojoku, Oyun LGA of Kwara State*

Owoduni you of all people should know that the EFCC is mandated to follow the rule of law on this matter.

Until the Kogi high court judgement is set aside by a superior court any other judgement from courts of concurrent status are jankara.

EFCC is deliberately misleading Nigeria in my candid opinion

He should go and clear his name. For how long will he keep evading arrest.