A demonstration staged by a group of Kogi youths at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja was forcefully dispersed by EFCC operatives today, according to reports.
The youths had assembled at the EFCC office in Jabi, Abuja, to voice their grievances over what they perceived as the unfair treatment of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello by the anti-graft agency. However, their attempt to protest was met with resistance as EFCC officials intervened, dispersing the demonstrators.
Video footage of the incident captured the moment when members of the Kogi Youth Coalition, leading the protest, were addressing the media before being chased away by EFCC operatives.
During the brief address to journalists, Otitoleke Richard, Head of the Kogi Youth Coalition, denounced the use of force by EFCC operatives, emphasising the importance of democratic principles and freedom of expression. Richard condemned the alleged intimidation and harassment faced by the demonstrators, insisting on their right to peacefully express their opinions.
In a separate video obtained by our correspondent, a significant amount of damage to property was evident, including a large bus with a shattered windscreen. The videographer lamented the violence, highlighting instances of people being assaulted and vehicles being vandalised.
Meanwhile, on Friday, the Kogi State High Court in Lokoja issued an order for EFCC chairperson, Ola Olukoyede, to appear before it on May 13. This directive came as a response to allegations of disobedience to a court order levelled against Olukoyede by former Governor Yahaya Bello. Bello, who is facing charges of money laundering amounting to N80.2 billion, accused Olukoyede of contempt for allegedly disregarding a court order prohibiting his arrest.
The legal battle between Bello and the EFCC continues, with the former governor seeking to prevent his arraignment and trial on the aforementioned charges.
