Nigeria is a Haven for Corruption, Says Sowore Amidst Yahaya Bello’s Trial

A well-known Nigerian activist and politician, Omoyele Sowore, recently referred to Nigeria as a “paradise for thieves,” as he berated the apparent glorification of corruption in the country. His reaction came following the court appearance of the former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, accused of having embezzled the sum of N110 billion, which in dollars would be about $11 million.

Bello was arraigned before the Federal Capital Territory High Court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a 19-count indictment, including money laundering charges, to which he was granted bail in the sum of ₦500 million with two sureties. The development has provoked strong reaction from Sowore, who blasted the ‘circus-like’ courtroom environment where Bello reportedly turned into an “instant hero” surrounded by his supporters praising him as a future president of the country.

On social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, Sowore lambasted: “Nigeria is a paradise for thieves! A country where crime pays off boldly, unabashedly, and unashamedly.” He accentuated how characters like Bello are not only insulated from the long arm of the law but also treated as heroes by sections of society, despite their assumed misdeeds. His attack was equally directed toward what seems to be the impunity in Nigeria, because, according to him, the political class rigs the legal systems for cover against accountability.

Sowore, a fiery champion of anti-corruption and good governance, noted that the public demeanor of Bello—smiling and unruffled during his arraignment—speaks volumes about a deep fault in Nigeria’s justice system. He lamented how those people he allegedly fleeced came out en masse to show support for him when he made his appearances at court.

But EFCC, opposing the bail application, told the court that Bello, during his tenure as governor between 2016 and 2023, had caused severe financial injury to Kogi State. The case of first-term governor Bello has been adjourned until December 10 and remains widely publicized by Nigerians, who pose a question as to where the country stands in respect for fighting corruption.

Click here to watch the video.