Court Grants Yahaya Bello N500 Million Bail in Alleged N80 Billion Fraud Case

A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi State, bail in the sum of N500 million. Bello is facing a 19-count charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged money laundering involving N80 billion.

The EFCC accused Bello of diverting public funds for personal gain, including the acquisition of properties both locally and abroad. During his arraignment, the former governor pleaded not guilty to all charges when they were read to him.

Joseph Daudu, SAN, counsel to Bello, emphasized that his client had no intention of disrespecting the court when he initially failed to appear for trial. He explained that Bello had been challenging the court’s jurisdiction up to the Supreme Court, which delayed the proceedings.

Daudu further assured the court that his client, who served two terms as governor and traveled abroad only twice during his tenure, would comply fully with court appearances. He appealed for reasonable bail conditions, citing Bello’s commitment to defending himself.

Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, counsel to the EFCC, did not oppose the bail application, noting that the defense had provided sufficient assurances that Bello would be available for trial. Pinheiro suggested that granting bail would ease the court’s burden.

Presiding Judge Emeka Nwite, after considering the submissions from both counsels, granted bail to Bello on the condition that he provides two sureties who own landed property within the court’s jurisdiction. The sureties are required to swear to an affidavit of means, and their title deeds must be verified by the court registrar.

Additionally, Bello was ordered to surrender his international passport. The judge ruled that he would remain in custody at the Kuje Correctional Centre until his bail conditions are met.

The case is expected to proceed to trial, with the former governor maintaining his plea of innocence.