Omoyele Sowore Accuses American International School in Abuja of Money Laundering with Yahaya Bello
ABUJA – Nigerian activist Omoyele Sowore has sparked controversy with allegations against the American International School (AIS) in Abuja, claiming the institution was involved in a money laundering scheme with former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and his former Chief of Staff, Ali Bello.
According to Sowore, the former governor and his aide funneled nearly $1 million through AIS under the pretense of paying “future school fees” for their children. The allegations were made public via a post on X, where Sowore vehemently argued that the school should face legal repercussions rather than merely refunding the payments.
Sowore’s call for accountability extends beyond just a refund. He suggests that the school, if found guilty, should face charges similar to those it would face in the United States, reflecting the seriousness with which financial crimes are treated under American law. Furthermore, he urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to ensure that AIS discloses all payments made by Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs), which he believes could uncover extensive financial misconduct.
The activist also proposed that AIS should be converted into a public school if implicated in the alleged money laundering activities. His statement reflects broader concerns regarding the role of elite private schools in financial crimes and the need for stringent regulatory oversight in Nigeria’s educational and financial sectors.
This bold assertion from Sowore has prompted discussions on social media and among anti-corruption advocates, awaiting any potential response from AIS or the EFCC. As the situation unfolds, the spotlight is increasingly on the accountability mechanisms within Nigeria’s educational institutions and their potential entanglement in political corruption.
