Abuja, Nigeria — The contrasting treatment of former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello and ex–Minister of Labour Chris Ngige by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has sparked renewed public debate over fairness and political influence in Nigeria’s anti-corruption campaign, particularly within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

While Bello, an influential APC figure, continues to remain at liberty despite facing multiple allegations of large-scale financial misconduct, Ngige is currently being held in EFCC custody over alleged contract fraud running into billions of naira.

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Bello’s Case: Allegations Without Detention
Yahaya Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, is under investigation for alleged money laundering and diversion of public funds estimated at over ₦80 billion, according to EFCC filings. The anti-graft agency has accused the former governor of frustrating attempts to arrest and arraign him, including missing scheduled court appearances and relying on legal technicalities to challenge EFCC’s jurisdiction.

Despite being declared wanted at a point, Bello later made public appearances accompanied by heavy security, fueling criticism that political protection has shielded him from detention. The EFCC maintains that investigations are ongoing, but his continued freedom has raised concerns among civil society groups and legal observers.

Ngige’s Case: Swift Arrest and Detention
In contrast, Chris Ngige, a senior APC member and former minister who served from 2015 to 2023, was arraigned before a Federal Capital Territory High Court on charges of alleged ₦2.2 billion contract fraud linked to his tenure in office. Following his arraignment, the court ordered his remand in EFCC custody, denying him bail pending further proceedings.

Ngige, who has pleaded not guilty to the charges, is facing trial over allegations of abuse of office and improper contract awards. His lawyers have described the detention as excessive, insisting that he is not a flight risk and has cooperated fully with investigators.

APC Power Dynamics Under Scrutiny
Political analysts say the differing outcomes reflect shifting power structures within the APC. Bello is regarded as a key political mobiliser with strong ties to influential party stakeholders, especially in the North-Central zone. Ngige, on the other hand, is believed to have lost significant influence since leaving office in 2023 and no longer controls a strong political base.

“These cases highlight how political relevance can shape the speed and intensity of prosecutions,” said an Abuja-based political analyst. “It creates the impression that the law is harsher on those who are no longer useful to the system.”

EFCC Responds
The EFCC has denied allegations of selective prosecution, insisting that each case is handled based on evidence, cooperation of suspects, and court orders. The commission said detention or release of suspects is determined by legal processes, not political considerations.

Public Reaction
The contrasting cases have triggered widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians questioning why one former official walks free under investigation while another remains behind bars. Anti-corruption advocates are calling for transparency, consistency, and equal application of the law, regardless of party affiliation or political standing.

Looking Ahead
As court proceedings continue, observers say the outcome of both cases will test the credibility of Nigeria’s anti-graft institutions and the APC’s commitment to accountability. For now, the differing fates of Bello and Ngige remain a powerful symbol of the broader debate over justice, power, and politics in Nigeria.