The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama has ordered the remand of the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, in Kuje Prison.
This decision, delivered by Justice Maryann Anenih, comes in connection with allegations of ₦110 billion fraud against the former governor. The court has scheduled the trial to continue on February 25, 2025.
Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, who led the state from 2016 to 2024, is facing a 16-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Alongside two former state officials, Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, Bello stands accused of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully acquired property.
Bail Application Denied
At a Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Justice Maryann Anenih dismissed Bello’s bail application. The court ruled that the application, filed on November 22—three days before Bello voluntarily surrendered to the EFCC on November 25—was premature. “Filing a bail application before detention undermines its validity,” the judge noted, adding that it was inadmissible under the law.
While Bello’s bail was denied, the court granted bail to his co-defendants under strict conditions, including ₦300 million each, two sureties in like sum, and the seizure of their travel documents.
EFCC’s Case
Represented by lead counsel Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, the EFCC argued that Bello’s bail request was a deliberate ploy to manipulate the legal process. They cited Bello’s past actions, alleging he had evaded trial in other cases. The EFCC accused the former governor of misappropriating ₦110 billion in state funds, using the money to acquire several high-value properties both domestically and abroad.
The properties listed in the charges include:
- No. 35 Danube Street, Maitama, Abuja (₦950 million)
- No. 1160 Cadastral Zone C03, Gwarimpa II, Abuja (₦100 million)
- No. 2 Justice Chukwudifu Oputa Street, Asokoro, Abuja (₦920 million)
- Block D, Manzini Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja (₦170 million)
- Hotel Apartment Community, Burj Khalifa, Dubai (AED 5,698,888)
- Block 18, Gwelo Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja (₦60 million)
- No. 9 Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja (₦310.4 million).
The EFCC also accused Bello and his co-defendants of transferring $570,330 and $556,265 to TD Bank, USA, and unlawfully obtaining ₦677.8 million through Bespoque Business Solution Limited.
Defense Argument
Bello’s legal team, led by former Nigerian Bar Association President Joseph Daudu, SAN, maintained his innocence, emphasising the principle of presumption of innocence under Nigerian law. Daudu argued that Bello had voluntarily surrendered to the EFCC and required bail to adequately prepare his defense.
Public Reaction and Significance
The high-profile case has sparked widespread debate. While many Nigerians have commended the EFCC’s efforts to ensure accountability among public officials, others have expressed frustration over the lengthy judicial process often associated with corruption trials.
The case, labeled CR/7781, is set to continue on February 25, 2025. It serves as a critical test of Nigeria’s judicial system in addressing corruption and fostering transparency within the public sector.