Justice Maryanne Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This follows his plea of not guilty to 16 charges of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully obtained property.
The charges, which also implicate co-defendants Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, involve allegations of fraud totaling N110.4 billion. The defendants are accused of misusing state funds to acquire high-value properties in Abuja and transferring substantial amounts to international accounts.
During Wednesday’s proceedings, Bello’s legal counsel, Joseph Daudu, moved for bail, emphasizing the former governor’s voluntary appearance in court and the principle of presumption of innocence. He argued that denying bail would be unjust as there was no evidence of flight risk or habitual criminal behavior.
The EFCC, represented by counsel Kemi Pinheiro, opposed the application, citing the seriousness of the allegations and the potential for Bello and his co-defendants to reoffend. Pinheiro also raised concerns about the second defendant, Hudu, who remains a serving government official, potentially using his position to commit similar offenses.
Justice Anenih adjourned the ruling on the bail application to December 10, directing that all three defendants remain in EFCC custody until then.
Bello’s appearance marks his first in court to respond to the charges, despite previous summonses, including a separate pending case involving an alleged N84 billion fraud at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The EFCC’s charges outline the acquisition of properties such as:
- No. 35 Danube Street, Maitama, Abuja (N950 million).
- No. 1160 Cadastral Zone C03, Gwarimpa II District, Abuja (N100 million).
- No. 2 Justice Chukwudifu Oputa Street, Asokoro, Abuja (N920 million).
Additionally, they include claims of illegal transfers amounting to $570,330 and $556,265 to TD Bank in the United States, alongside the possession of N677.8 million obtained from Bespoque Business Solution Limited.
Bello and his co-defendants continue to deny all allegations. As the case progresses, the bail ruling on December 10 will be a pivotal moment in the unfolding legal battle.
