- Faces 16-Count EFCC Charges
- Ordered to Surrender Passport and Stay Within Nigeria
Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has regained his freedom after meeting the bail conditions set by the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja. His release from the Kuje Custodial Centre was confirmed on Friday evening by the spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Adamu Duza.
“Yahaya Bello has been released after meeting the bail conditions. He was released this evening,” Duza said, adding that the FCT Controller of NCoS, Ajibogun Olatubosun, oversaw the process to ensure proper protocol was followed.
Bail Conditions and Court Directives
Bello was granted bail on Thursday by Justice MaryAnne Anenih in the sum of N500 million, with the following conditions:
- Three sureties must own properties in high-value Abuja neighborhoods, such as Maitama, Guzape, or Asokoro.
- Bello must surrender his international passport.
- He cannot leave Nigeria without prior court approval.
EFCC Charges and Legal Proceedings
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed a 16-count charge against Bello, alongside Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, accusing them of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and unlawful possession of property. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty.
Justice Anenih initially rejected Bello’s bail application on procedural grounds but later approved a fresh application on Thursday. His co-defendants had been granted bail earlier.
Next Steps
The case continues as Bello prepares to face trial on charges brought by the EFCC. The court’s directives and travel restrictions remain in place, ensuring Bello remains within reach of the law while awaiting further legal proceedings.
