The Dangerous Intersection of Politics and Justice: A Critical Look at Yahaya Bello’s Case

By Seun Johnson

The recent bombshell dropped by a prominent chieftain of the All Progressive Congress, Jesutega Onokpasa has become a beguiling graffiti on the political posture of the ruling party and a troubling narrative that exposed the hidden agenda of some highly placed individuals within the progressive family.

Apart from shedding light on a deeper malaise affecting the ruling party and the integrity of its leadership, the damning disclosure also gave an underpinned insight into the rationale behind Yahaya Bello’s trial and what Nigerians may possibly witness in the weeks ahead.

Onokpasa, former member of APC Presidential Campaign Council had accused certain appointees of President Bola Tinubu of plotting to succeed him before the end of his tenure, allegedly wishing for his untimely demise to fulfill their ambitions. 

His allegations are not mere political gossip. They reflect a sinister undercurrent of hypocrisy, anti-party activities, and a pull him down mentality which are the characteristic trademarks of the Nigerian politicians. 

The APC chieftain vehemently condemned those wishing harm upon the President, even going as far as cursing them, predicting that if they do not repent, they will perish before Tinubu. This extreme rhetoric underscores the gravity of the situation and the intense factionalism within the APC.

A significant part of Onokpasa’s concern revolves around the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and its actions against former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello. 

The politician argues that the EFCC’s case against Bello is a smokescreen for a larger plot to eliminate him as a political threat before the 2027 elections. 

Without any doubt, this account is scary regardless of its authenticity. And if it was a stuff of fiction from Onokpasa’s fertile imagination, why has there not been refutations by those who are fingered in this face off that smells like fallacy?

His claim raises serious questions about the impartiality of the EFCC and the potential misuse of its authority for political vendettas.

Onokpasa’s assertions prompt a critical examination of the ongoing trial and the broader implications for justice and democracy in Nigeria. The EFCC’s conduct in the case of the former governor has been controversial, particularly regarding its handling of school fees paid for Bello’s children, which the EFCC claimed were proceeds of fraud. 

Despite a court ruling mandating the school not to refund the fees to the EFCC, the school complied under pressure, highlighting the pervasive influence of the commission.

Furthermore, the EFCC’s public dissemination of private financial details, including those of Bello’s children, exacerbates concerns about the commission’s respect for due process and the presumption of innocence. 

The EFCC must operate within the ambit of the law and refrain from persecuting individuals in the court of public opinion before their cases are adjudicated.

The judiciary’s role in this matter is also under scrutiny. Justice Emeka Nwite’s actions in handling the EFCC’s case against Bello raise questions about judicial independence and fairness. 

The issuance of an ex parte arrest warrant against Bello, despite pending preliminary objections and without proper service of the charge, suggests a deviation from judicial norms and principles of natural justice.

Justice Nwite’s subsequent decisions, including the refusal to entertain interlocutory applications from Bello’s defense and the insistence on his physical appearance before considering jurisdictional challenges, further fuel perceptions of bias. 

Such actions undermine public confidence in the judiciary’s ability to act impartially and uphold the rule of law.

The implications of this case extend beyond the individuals involved. It highlights the precarious state of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and the rule of law. The judiciary must serve as a bulwark against political manipulation, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their political affiliations, receive a fair trial.

In the pursuit of justice, it is imperative that the EFCC and the judiciary adhere strictly to legal standards and procedures. The principle that justice must not only be done but be seen to be done is fundamental to maintaining public trust in the legal system. 

As the trial of Yahaya Bello progresses, it is crucial for all stakeholders, including the EFCC, the judiciary, and the political class, to reflect on the broader implications of their actions. 

The integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes and the rule of law depend on their commitment to justice and fairness. Only through adherence to these principles can the country navigate its political challenges and build a more just and equitable society.

Seun Johnson, a Media Strategist writes from Lagos