Usman Ododo, the recently appointed governor of Kogi State, is under criticism for designating Yahaya Bello’s nephew Ali Bello, who is under investigation for a N3 billion scam, as Chief of Staff.

According to XK STAFF, Ododo announced his Chief of Staff and other significant appointments on Saturday after taking office as Kogi State’s sixth democratic governor.

However, because Ali Bello was docked by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for an alleged N3 billion theft on February 8 of last year, his appointment has come under heavy criticism.

According to information obtained by XK STAFF, Ali Bello is facing 18 charges from Nigeria’s anti-corruption agency, the EFCC, related to money laundering and theft of over N3 billion.

Along with Abba Adauda, Yakubu Siyaka Adabenege, Iyada Sadat, and Rashida Bello, the first lady of Kogi, Ali Bello was indicted in the case.

They are being sued by the EFCC under suit number ABJ/CR/573/2022.

Nigerians on X voiced worries in response to the incident.

@lawrenceOkoropg

Twelve months later, the same individual detained by the EFCC in February 2023 for N3 billion in fraud was named Chief of Staff in the Kogi State administration. But many people are withering away in prison for inaction.

@firstladyship:

Nigeria’s weakest link and Wild West is Kogi state. I have the greatest sympathy for them. The nephew of Yahaya Bello, who is currently the chief of staff, is under investigation by the EFCC. The Naira will keep plunging in value relative to other currencies because of the politicians.

@austin_aai:

A February 2023 convict

January 2024: a head of staff

Is the Lord not doing miraculous works?

State of Kogi? Since his name is not Emefiele, the EFCC has chosen to ignore him.