The immediate past governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday, where he pleaded not guilty to a fresh 19-count charge filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Bello, currently remanded at Kuje prison, is accused of complicity in an N80.2 billion fraud during his tenure as governor from 2016 to 2024.
Details of the Charges
The EFCC alleged that Bello used five proxies to acquire luxury properties in prime locations in Abuja and Dubai, claiming the acquisitions were made with proceeds of crime. Additionally, he is accused of attempting to conceal over N3 billion by entrusting the funds to associates and wiring $700,000 to a U.S. bank account in violation of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act.
The anti-graft agency also named Bello’s nephew, Ali Bello, alongside four others—Dauda Suleiman, Shehu Bello, Rabiu Musa, and Abdulsalam Hudu (currently at large)—as accomplices in the alleged fraud.
According to the EFCC, these actions constitute a breach of public trust, violating Sections 18(a) and (c) of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act, punishable under Section 15 of the same Act.
Plea for Bail
Bello, represented by a team of lawyers led by former Nigerian Bar Association President, Mr. J.B. Daudu (SAN), requested bail, assuring the court of his willingness to attend trial.
He emphasized his status as a two-term governor who traveled minimally during his tenure, pledging to provide credible sureties to guarantee his presence in court.
“I wish to correct any impression that the defendant was unwilling to appear for trial. The previous legal steps taken were to challenge the court’s jurisdiction, not to disrespect it. He holds this court in the highest regard,” Daudu stated.
Prosecution’s Position
EFCC counsel, Mr. Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), did not oppose the bail request but urged the court to set stringent conditions to ensure Bello’s compliance.
It is worth noting that Bello is already facing a separate 16-count charge in a different court, where he was earlier remanded by Justice Maryann Anenih of the Abuja High Court in Maitama.
Ongoing Developments
The trial is expected to shed light on the alleged financial improprieties, with the court balancing the defendant’s right to bail against ensuring justice is served.
Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned the hearing to deliberate on the bail conditions while emphasizing the importance of accountability in governance.
