Youth leaders from the All Progressives Congress (APC) have accused some influential members within the party of orchestrating the ongoing persecution of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
They allege that the action is politically motivated, with some party figures seeking to undermine Bello ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a statement issued on Monday, the APC Youth Leaders Forum (AYLF), a group representing youth leaders from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), expressed their concern about the treatment of Bello, whom they believe has contributed significantly to the party’s success, including helping secure President Bola Tinubu’s election.
The statement, signed by the forum’s National President, Alhaji Abdullahi Danbaba, and National Secretary, Dr. Chike Ihedioha, highlighted that certain party stalwarts were using the 2027 election as a reason to target Bello with politically motivated accusations, aimed at diminishing his influence and reputation within the party.
The AYLF, which has played a prominent role in the party’s youth mobilization since its formation, defended Bello’s record in Kogi State, asserting that his leadership was both lawful and beneficial to the party.
“Yahaya Bello’s achievements in Kogi State are there for all to see,” the statement noted. “Yet, those using the EFCC against him have ignored the real individuals who should be under investigation.”
The youth leaders expressed disappointment that rather than rewarding those who helped the party win critical elections, they were being unfairly targeted. “Instead of honoring the party’s loyalists who have helped secure electoral victories, some are being branded as criminals, which undermines the party’s progress,” they said.
The statement further revealed that the leaders had information suggesting that the persecution of Bello was a direct result of the ambitions of certain individuals within the APC seeking political power ahead of 2027.
“We have credible information that the harassment of former Governor Yahaya Bello by the EFCC is politically motivated, driven by those seeking to position themselves for 2027,” the youth leaders claimed. “This unjust targeting of our party members is damaging the unity and integrity of the APC.”
The youth leaders also referenced former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, as another prominent party member being unjustly targeted by the same group of individuals.
They called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and prevent further damage to the party, urging him to put an end to politically motivated actions within the party. They also demanded that the politically driven corruption charges against Bello be withdrawn to restore unity within the APC.
“Let the EFCC carry out its work independently, without being manipulated by those seeking to settle political scores,” the youth leaders concluded.
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