Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, has been granted bail in the sum of N500 million by the Federal High Court in Abuja. Bello was arraigned on Friday on a 16-count charge of money laundering brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The charges allege that Bello and others conspired in February 2016 to convert N80,246,470,088.88, funds allegedly obtained through a criminal breach of trust. This alleged offense violates Section 18(a) and is punishable under Section 15(3) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011, as amended.
One specific count details how Bello allegedly procured E-Traders International Limited to transfer $570,330 to a US bank account in November 2021. The EFCC claims this sum was part of the proceeds of unlawful activity, specifically a criminal breach of trust.
Bello pleaded not guilty to all 16 charges. His lawyer, Joseph Daudu SAN, explained that Bello’s previous absences from court proceedings were not due to disrespect but rather a strategic legal decision to challenge the court’s jurisdiction in higher courts.
While seeking bail, Daudu emphasized Bello’s status as a two-term governor and his limited travel history, assuring the court that his client would not jump bail. The EFCC did not oppose the bail request.
Justice Emeka Nwite, presiding over the case, granted bail to Bello in the sum of N500 million with two sureties in like sum. The sureties must possess landed property in Abuja. Bello is also required to deposit his international passport with the court.
Pending the fulfillment of his bail conditions, Bello will be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre. The trial has been adjourned to February and March 2025.
This case has been marked by several delays and legal maneuvers. Bello had previously been absent from four court proceedings due to legal challenges raised by his defense team. The EFCC had even declared Bello wanted at one point, accusing the Kogi State government of shielding him from arrest.
Despite the ongoing legal disputes in higher courts regarding Bello’s arraignment, the EFCC has filed another fraud case against him at the FCT High Court. This is separate from a N100 billion criminal case Bello is facing before the same court, in which he was previously denied bail.
The multiple cases and accusations against Bello highlight the ongoing scrutiny of his financial dealings during his time as governor of Kogi State. The upcoming trial at the Federal High Court will be closely watched as it unfolds.
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