A non-political organization, the Odu Akowe Network has described ongoing tussle between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and former Governor of Kogi state, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, as a fight against Nigerian youths.
The youth and students wing of Odu Akowe Network made this known at a press conference in Lokoja on Tuesday.
Coordinator of the group, Comrade Noah Agada bemoaned the ceaseless intimidation, harassment and persecution of the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.
They noted that “as a youthful and useful governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has been the only governor who had the frequent relationship with youth and student bodies in Nigeria. The persecution of Yahaya Bello is an indirect fight against the youths; he had 100% youth inclusiveness during his administration and also meeting up with the 45% women involvement in governance.”
The group said activities of the EFCC as regards Kogi state in the recent past have constantly impinged on the peace and development of the state, thereby impeding on the focus of the Governor Usman Ododo-led administration.
They called on President Bola Tinubu, democratic institutions, opinion leaders and men of goodwill to wade into the unprofessional conduct displayed thus far by the anti-graft agency.
“The enthronement of the President Tinubu Administration offered a ray of hope and development for our teaming youth and society at large as encapsulated in the renewed hope agenda.
“Governor Usman Ododo assumed office on January 2024, with a clear mandate on consolidating on the goodwill and development strides of former Governor Yahaya Bello. His practical approach to development has endeared the people of Kogi State to his administration and we encourage him to continue on the part of greatness and purposeful development.
“Suffice to say at this juncture, that no government, society can thrive in an atmosphere of distraction, rancor and acrimony. The activities of the EFCC as regards to Kogi State in the recent weeks and months are constantly hindering the peace and development of our dear state; Impeding on the focus of the Ododo Administration, therefore hampering on the progress of the state.
“The constant scrutiny of the past administration by the EFCC, masterminded by persons who are out to score personal political gains with the intent to persecute rather than prosecute the former Governor is hindering the present administration from being purposeful and effective; let’s prioritize the future and development of our State.
“The Odu Akowe Network, Youth and Student Wing, is therefore using this medium to urge the Federal Government led by our humble Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu to call the EFCC to order and refrain from distracting our Governor Usman Ododo and former Governor Yahaya Bello with inquiries into alleged infractions, instead they should allow the current Governor to focus on developing the state,” the group said.
The group recalled the legacies and development strides of Yahaya Bello and called for an end to all the distractions the better for all.
“It is pertinent to note some of the achievements of former Governor Yahaya Bello’s contribution to State and National development; he was at the forefront of the 2023 Presidential election, even after losing his bid for the presidency, he wore the garment of a sportsman, campaigned for APC, leading the youth structures to galvanize support for this government. If this is how loyalty and stewardship is rewarded, it is a direct signal to us the youths that there’s no reward system. This is because from all indication former Gov Bello is being paid in a negative manner having contributed handsomely to the APC victory in the 2023 general election.
“Furthermore, he prioritized education, for his 8 years administration. All our tertiary institutions were running smooth academic sessions. This resulted to the drastic reduction in insecurity, cultism, drug abuse and other social vices in the state.
“Not forgetting also is the prioritization of health care within the State. The Health Sector received prompt attention with the provision of State-of- the-art Medical Facilities’, increased primary health care service across the State.
“The President and the party should also note that ‘he who is silent in the face of oppression is an accomplice to oppression’. We urge the Federal Government to focus on attracting more development to our State, rather than allowing anti-graft agencies to constantly harass our Governor. It’s time to shift the focus from investigation to innovation and progress. We suggest you consider implementing business-attraction programs that have worked for other states such as offering tax credits and incentives, building a strong business development team and relentlessly focusing on performance and evaluation by working together, we can create a more prosperous future for our state and its citizens; let’s make it happen.
“The Odu Akowe Network is also urging the Government at all levels and the EFCC to rather than chase shadows that will only deplete the resources of Government at all levels, continue prioritize policies aimed at developing our nation’s youth towards propelling our country forward. The future of our dea nation rests on the shoulders of our young people and it is crucial that we provide them with the necessary tools and support to succeed.”
The group noted that President Tinubu’s administration has made significant strides, promoting youth development and national growth, and encouraged the nation’s leader to stay focused on these efforts and continue implementing policies that foster a brig future for all citizens.
“As you continue to lead our nation, we remind you that the choices ma today will shape the future of our country. We have faith in your ability make decisions that will benefit our nation and promote peace, stability a prosperity for generations to come.”