The African Transparency Initiative (ATI) has strongly criticised President Bola Tinubu over the appointment of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, to the All Progressives Congress (APC) national reconciliation committee, describing it as a troubling blow to integrity and accountability.
In a statement issued on Saturday, ATI said the decision sends a dangerous message that serious allegations of corruption, illegal mining, and terrorism sponsorship no longer carry weight in Nigeria’s political space. The group warned that the move could further damage public trust and Nigeria’s already strained international reputation.
Signed by ATI’s Executive Director, Comrade Taiwo Omoniyi Otitolaye, the statement accused the President of offering what it called “presidential cover” to Bello, who is currently facing trial over the alleged diversion of more than ₦80 billion during his eight years as Kogi State governor.
According to ATI, appointing Bello to a sensitive party role represents a major setback for governance and anti-corruption efforts. The group alleged that the former governor’s record includes claims of political violence, illegal mining activities, and controversial associations that should ordinarily disqualify him from such a position.
“With this appointment, the President appears to be signalling tolerance for corruption, illegal mining, and even terrorism-related allegations,” ATI stated, warning that the decision undermines the credibility of institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The organisation also raised concerns about Bello’s alleged links to cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, whose past engagements with armed groups have sparked national debate. ATI claimed that insecurity and illegal mining in parts of Kogi State worsened following Gumi’s 2021 visit to the state, where he publicly praised Bello.
ATI questioned President Tinubu’s priorities, asking whether political ambition was being placed above integrity and justice. The group noted that many residents of Kogi State, who it said suffered under Bello’s administration, are watching the development with fear, anger, and disappointment.
Calling for immediate action, ATI urged the APC to remove Bello from the reconciliation committee and demanded that all allegations against him be pursued without political interference.
“Nigeria deserves leadership that places principle above power and justice above impunity,” the group concluded.
