By Muhammad Mamman
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has firmly denied claims that it threatened Ali Bello with the use of an electric chair during his ongoing ₦10 billion fraud trial, describing the allegation as false, misleading and intended to undermine the judicial process.
Bello, who is standing trial over alleged financial crimes linked to public funds in Kogi State, is facing multiple charges bordering on conspiracy and money laundering.
In a statement issued on Monday, the EFCC dismissed reports circulating online that its operatives subjected the defendant to intimidation or made references to capital punishment during court proceedings.
“The Commission wishes to categorically state that no such threat was made to the defendant at any point,” the anti-graft agency said, stressing that its officers conducted themselves strictly within the bounds of the law and with full respect for Bello’s fundamental rights.
The EFCC added that Nigeria does not operate capital punishment by electric chair, describing the claim as “absurd and a product of imagination”.
According to the Commission, the allegation appears designed to distract from the substance of the case and cast aspersions on the integrity of prosecutors handling the matter.
Bello is accused of orchestrating a scheme involving the diversion of billions of naira through proxy accounts and shell companies, allegations he has consistently denied. The court has adjourned the case to a later date for continuation of trial.
The EFCC reiterated its commitment to due process and fair prosecution, assuring the public that the case would be pursued transparently and in line with the rule of law.
