By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Center for Justice and Peace (CJP) has denied calling for the arrest of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, who is currently under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Dr Stephen Okparaibe, Director General of CJP, clarified this during a briefing with journalists in Abuja.

Okparaibe stated that the organization did not authorize any statement calling for Bello’s arrest, attributing the claim to impersonators.

He explained that the impersonators’ statement contradicts CJP’s core values, as the organization would not call for the arrest of someone who voluntarily surrendered to the EFCC.

Recall that Bello is facing a N110.4 billion fraud case, with a recent court order summoning him for arraignment. The EFCC had declared Bello wanted but failed to arrest him after he surrendered.

The CJP reaffirmed its commitment to justice, peace, and adherence to the rule of law, emphasizing its independence and non-partisanship. Comprised mostly of lawyers, the organization is dedicated to promoting Nigeria’s democratic values.

The CJP warned that such actions undermine the credibility of genuine civil society organizations.

The CJP urged relevant authorities, including the National Security Adviser, Department of State Security Service, and Inspector General of Police, to investigate and prosecute the impostors.

The organization also condemned derogatory statements against the judiciary and urged restraint in the EFCC-Bello matter, allowing the judicial process to run its course.

Okparaibe stated, “We are shocked that desperate politicians would sponsor criminals to impersonate our organization and release malicious statements. This blatant attempt to undermine our integrity and independence will not be tolerated.

“We are perturbed that some section of the media would grant audience to these unknown faces to impersonate and release a statement on behalf of the group.

“If the EFCC, which declared Mr. Bello wanted, had him for over four hours and refused to arrest and prosecute him, how could we? This highlights the contradiction in calling for his arrest.

“We don’t want to be dragged into this issue. Let the court decide.”