Northern youth groups in Bauchi and Gombe states have staged peaceful protests in solidarity with former Kogi state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, whom they claim is being unjustly persecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The North Central Progressive Voice and the Northern Youth Movement for Good Governance and democratic values led the demonstrations, calling for President Bola Tinubu to intervene.
They believe that the EFCC’s actions are a violation of the rule of law and are seeking to draw attention to this issue.
The protest began in Bauchi, where they convened at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Center for a world news conference, urging Tinubu to intervene.
Following this, they presented an open letter to His Eminence Sheikh Dairu Bauchi, seeking his influential mediation to resolve the crisis peacefully.
The groups marched through the streets of Gombe, causing temporary disruptions as they pressed for justice.
At the Hotel de Unique Gombe, another news conference was held, expressing gratitude to the community and reiterating the call for Tinubu’s intervention.
Representing diverse communities from across the north, the coalition demanded swift action from President Tinubu to address the EFCC’s alleged harassment not only of Bello but also of other individuals facing similar treatment.
Alhaji Ismaila Danladi, the group’s spokesperson, criticized the EFCC’s actions, emphasizing the imperative of upholding the rule of law and averting national embarrassment.
In tandem with the news conferences, the coalition penned an urgent appeal to President Tinubu, stressing the critical need for resolution to prevent escalation.
Delivering the plea to the Gombe state governor, Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya, they aimed to expedite its transmission to President Tinubu.
Their message underscores the potency of grassroots movements in safeguarding democratic values.
Amidst widespread condemnation from public figures and legal experts, the coalition remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice, highlighting Bello’s accolades for transparency and accountability during his tenure.
With solidarity walks planned in Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa, their campaign shows no signs of relenting until their call for intervention is heeded.
