In a statement reflecting deep concerns within Nigeria‘s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), youth leaders have accused influential figures within the party of exploiting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to target former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. The youth leaders, representing the APC Youth Leaders Forum (AYLF) from across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, argue that Bello’s ongoing scrutiny by the EFCC is rooted in political rivalry rather than legitimate accountability. The allegations, they claim, are part of an orchestrated campaign by some powerful APC members focused on positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.
The AYLF, a registered youth mobilization group within the APC, has been instrumental in building youth participation and support since the party’s formation. In their statement, jointly signed by National President Alhaji Abdullahi Danbaba and National Secretary Dr. Chike Ihedioha, the youth leaders criticized the “targeted harassment” of Bello and other senior APC figures. They claim that the EFCC’s actions against Bello are not genuinely motivated by anti-corruption goals but rather by political ambitions.
Background of Allegations Against Yahaya Bello
Bello, who served as governor of Kogi State from 2016 to 2023, has faced scrutiny over his financial stewardship during his tenure. The EFCC’s investigation into his administration allegedly revolves around financial mismanagement and impropriety. However, the AYLF contends that Bello has consistently complied with legal processes, and his record in Kogi speaks to his commitment to development.
During his governorship, Bello reportedly achieved significant milestones in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, which the AYLF believes should stand as testimony to his dedication. The Forum emphasized that while Kogi’s development benefited under Bello’s leadership, individuals aiming to undermine his contributions are now influencing anti-corruption agencies like the EFCC to pursue baseless charges.
2027 Election Dynamics Fueling Internal Conflict
According to the youth leaders, the real motivation behind these accusations lies in political ambitions for the 2027 elections. They argue that certain APC members are wielding the EFCC as a tool to silence perceived rivals, a move they believe threatens party unity and risks eroding public confidence in the APC. “Some individuals,” the statement reads, “are bent on destroying the party over permutations ahead of the 2027 elections and their desire for political offices.”
These leaders contend that, rather than persecuting fellow party members, the APC should be recognizing those who have contributed to the party’s victories, including at the presidential and state levels. They assert that influential members within the APC are selectively targeting individuals for their own gains, thereby neglecting those who have devotedly supported the party’s growth and electoral success. They emphasize that party unity and reward for loyal service are essential in strengthening the APC’s position as Nigeria’s ruling party.
Broader Implications and Allegations of Factionalism
The youth leaders’ statement goes beyond defending Bello, highlighting broader concerns over factionalism and favoritism within the APC. They cite the example of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who they allege has also been unfairly targeted. By singling out leaders like Bello and El-Rufai, the statement argues, influential party members are sowing seeds of division within the APC.
The youth leaders call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, asserting that such actions are undermining the APC’s standing and credibility. “This is the right time for the President to show leadership and stop these individuals from sinking this party because of politically motivated prejudice, hate, and sheer wickedness,” the Forum urges. By stepping in, they believe Tinubu can prevent further factional divides from destabilizing the party ahead of crucial elections.
Political Persecution or Legitimate Scrutiny?
At the heart of this dispute is a delicate balance between anti-corruption efforts and political motivations. The EFCC, tasked with upholding financial transparency and accountability, has frequently faced accusations of political bias. Critics argue that anti-corruption efforts can often become entangled with political interests, especially in cases involving prominent figures within the ruling party.
In Bello’s case, the youth leaders argue that the EFCC’s probe is an example of this misuse, emphasizing that other figures with genuine corruption allegations remain untouched. They believe that to foster true accountability, the EFCC must operate independently of political interests and apply the same standards across all cases.
A Call for the Withdrawal of Politically Driven Petitions
In their closing remarks, the AYLF demanded that all politically motivated petitions against Bello and other APC members be withdrawn from the EFCC, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC), and other anti-corruption agencies. This, they argue, would allow these agencies to carry out their mandates free from political manipulation and help preserve the APC’s image as a united and principled political entity.
The AYLF stressed that permitting internal factions to weaponize anti-corruption agencies weakens public trust in both the APC and the EFCC. “Let the EFCC do its job without being used to hound perceived enemies of a few influential people in the party,” they implored, calling on APC leaders to work toward unity rather than division.
Conclusion: A Test of Unity and Integrity for APC Leadership
The accusations leveled by the AYLF highlight a pivotal moment for the APC. As the party faces pressures to unify ahead of the 2027 elections, addressing internal divisions and restoring public faith in its integrity will be paramount. The youth leaders’ defense of Bello and other targeted figures underscores the importance of maintaining fair and transparent practices, even within the party’s ranks.
The AYLF’s statement challenges President Tinubu and other senior APC figures to mediate and prevent factional interests from dictating party policy. By intervening decisively, the President can demonstrate his commitment to upholding the APC’s values and ensuring that personal ambitions do not overshadow the party’s greater mission.
Ultimately, the allegations surrounding Bello’s persecution present an opportunity for the APC to strengthen its internal structures and renew its focus on unity, loyalty, and fair governance. Whether the party can navigate these challenges and emerge stronger may well set the tone for its success in the upcoming electoral cycles.
