Turn yourself in to EFCC, Ortem tells Yahaya Bello

The former governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom has advised the immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello to come out of hiding and turn himself in to the Economic and Financial Crimes Communities, (EFCC).

Ortom spoke at the thanksgiving ceremony held on Sunday at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Regional Headquarters in Makurdi to honour him on his 63rd birthday celebration.

He said it was inappropriate for the former governor to disappear after being asked to clarify matters about his time as governor by the anti-graft agency; noting that evading the invitation of the EFCC and trying to flee would bring shame and disgrace to former governors.

Ortom said, “let me use this opportunity to advise my younger brother and friend, former governor Yahaya Bello not to disgrace former governors.

“If you are called to come and account for your stewardship by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, go there.

“You do not need to hide from EFCC, you do not need to resist arrest or anything. Go there and explain. EFCC are human beings who are doing their work.

“If they are making inquiries, the laws are there. I have tried to get him on the phone, but I could not, I tried those around him, but I could not. I want him to note, wherever he is if he can hear me from there, he should go before the EFCC.”

“I did not know that I am still being appreciated after leaving office,” declared the former governor, who applauded his former appointees for congratulating him at the age of 63. I might emerge from my hibernation thanks to this gesture.”

He added that having eight years as governor was a difficult job because of the difficulties and limitations security details placed on you and people who wished to see you when you were in office.