Urge EFCC to Stop Politically Motivated Persecution
The Youth Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have alleged that certain influential figures within the party are behind the ongoing investigation of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The youth leaders claim that the case is driven by political motives rather than genuine anti-corruption efforts.
The APC Youth Leaders Forum (AYLF), comprising representatives from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), voiced concerns about the targeting of loyal party members who have contributed significantly to the APC's growth and electoral successes, including the presidency currently held by Bola Tinubu.
In a statement signed by the Forum's National President, Alhaji Abdullahi Danbaba, and National Secretary, Dr. Chike Ihedioha, the AYLF alleged that certain individuals within the party are attempting to undermine Yahaya Bello due to their political ambitions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The AYLF, a recognized youth mobilization network within the APC, highlighted that the former governor has consistently acted within the law throughout the ongoing EFCC probe. They praised his achievements in Kogi State, citing numerous positive testimonies as evidence of his good governance.
"Yahaya Bello’s achievements during his tenure in Kogi State speak for themselves. It is unfortunate that some individuals are using the EFCC to pursue their personal political agendas while ignoring more serious cases of corruption that deserve attention. This selective persecution is a threat to the credibility of the current administration," the youth leaders stated.
The Forum further criticized attempts by unnamed APC stalwarts to smear Yahaya Bello’s reputation through sponsored media attacks, which they believe are part of a broader strategy to discredit potential rivals ahead of the 2027 elections.
"We have credible information indicating that the continuous harassment and intimidation of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, by the EFCC is politically orchestrated by those with ambitions for 2027. It is disheartening to see that loyal party members, who played vital roles in our recent electoral victories, are now being targeted instead of celebrated," the statement read.
The youth leaders also cited the example of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, suggesting he too is being targeted by individuals who have not significantly contributed to the party’s growth.
Calling on President Bola Tinubu to intervene, the AYLF warned that these internal disputes could weaken the party. "This is the time for the President to demonstrate leadership and prevent a few individuals from tearing the party apart due to political bias and malice," they emphasized.
Finally, the AYLF demanded the immediate withdrawal of politically influenced petitions submitted to the EFCC, ICPC, and other anti-corruption bodies, urging these agencies to perform their duties without succumbing to partisan pressures.
"Let the EFCC carry out its mandate impartially, without being weaponized against perceived political opponents within the party," the youth leaders concluded.
