A pro-democracy group, the Vanguard for Credible Representation (VCR), has urged the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) to call one of its own and Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ododo, to order over his acts of shielding his predecessor, former Governor Yahaya Bello from investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The group, in a letter dated 23rd of September, 2024 and signed by its Head of Mission, Onche Ugbabe, accused Governor Ododo of obstructing justice by allegedly preventing the EFCC from arresting Bello.

According to the letter, which has been acknowledged at the secretariat of the Nigerian Governor’s Forum, Abuja, Ododo is said to have provided refuge for the former governor and accompanied him to the EFCC headquarters on September 18, 2024, in a manner deemed “unbecoming of a state governor.”

The group expressed “deep concerns that Ododo’s actions undermine the Federal Government’s anti-corruption efforts, erode public trust in governmental institutions and tarnish Nigeria’s international reputation.”

It noted further that “the Nigerian Governors’ Forum’s silence on the issue might be interpreted as support for Ododo’s behavior.”

The group called on the NGF to address Governor Ododo’s alleged interference and encourage cooperation with the EFCC, emphasizing that “the rule of law must be upheld to promote accountability and restore trust.”

“As advocates for transparency and accountability, we urge the Nigeria’s Governors’ Forum (NGF) to encourage one of your members, Governor Ododo, to cooperate with EFCC and allow the law to take its course.

“We count on your leadership to promote accountability and transparency,” the group said.

The letter was also copied to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Hope Uzodinma, Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF), urging them to support efforts towards transparency and accountability.