Nigeria’s political space heated up after President Bola Tinubu approved the appointment of former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello to the APC national reconciliation committee, drawing sharp criticism from an anti-corruption group.
The African Transparency Initiative raised the alarm on Saturday, accusing the presidency of ignoring serious allegations hanging over Bello, including an ongoing corruption case involving more than ₦80 billion allegedly linked to his time in office.
The group said the appointment sends the wrong message at a time when Nigerians expect stronger action against corruption, arguing that placing Bello in a sensitive party role weakens public trust and damages Nigeria’s image abroad.
ATI also pointed to past allegations of political violence, illegal mining, and links to controversial figures, warning that such issues should bar anyone from holding influence within a ruling party structure.
According to the organisation, the move risks undermining the work of anti-graft agencies, especially as Bello is already facing trial, and could suggest political protection for those accused of serious wrongdoing.
The group called for Bello’s immediate removal from the committee and urged authorities to allow investigations to proceed without interference, insisting that integrity and justice must come before party loyalty.


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