Former Kogi State Governor reportedly failed to appear for the All Progressives Congress senatorial screening exercise for aspirants contesting the party’s ticket in Kogi Central, amid his ongoing trial by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over alleged financial crimes involving about ₦80 billion.
According to sources familiar with the process, Bello did not attend the screening before the APC panel, despite requirements for all aspirants seeking the ticket to participate in the exercise.
The former governor is currently being prosecuted by the over allegations of fraud, money laundering, and criminal breach of trust.
Meanwhile, some youths from Kogi Central Senatorial District have expressed concern over Bello’s absence, urging the APC leadership not to grant preferential treatment to any aspirant.
In a statement released on Monday, the group said Bello’s non-appearance had raised questions among party members about compliance with the party’s screening guidelines and internal democratic procedures.
The youths alleged that while other aspirants attended the screening, Bello was reportedly in Lagos during the exercise.
They warned that approving any aspirant who failed to personally appear before the screening panel could damage the credibility of the process and weaken trust among party supporters.
The group further insisted that no aspirant should receive waivers or special privileges, stressing that fairness, transparency, and equal treatment remain essential to maintaining confidence within the party in Kogi Central.
They also called on the APC national leadership and members of the screening committee to strictly enforce the party’s rules and ensure that justice and internal democracy guide the selection process.
