Former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has responded to accusations regarding the payment of school fees for his children, aiming to clear the air amidst swirling controversies.
Following claims by the chairman of the Economic Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, during a media briefing on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, Bello’s media office has released a statement refuting the allegations.
In the statement titled “Payment for school fees: Setting the records straight,” Bello’s spokesperson, Ohiare Michael, outlined several key points to address the issue.
According to the statement, Bello’s children had been attending the American International School, Abuja, prior to his governorship, and fees were paid timely without reliance on state government funds.
Contrary to claims, Bello did not pay exorbitant amounts just before leaving office, as alleged. The payments commenced in 2021, and no state funds were utilized for this purpose.
Furthermore, the statement highlights legal challenges against the EFCC’s attempt to recover the fees, emphasizing that no funds belonging to Bello or his family have been seized by the EFCC.
The documents circulated online by the EFCC are described as part of legal proceedings initiated by Bello and others, affirming transparency in the matter.
The statement concludes by asserting that the legitimacy of the fees payment is under legal scrutiny, pending a court decision.
