The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has granted bail to former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello in the sum of N500 million. Bello is facing trial over alleged misappropriation of N10.4 billion.
Justice MaryAnne Anenih, who presided over the case, imposed strict bail conditions, including the surrender of Bello’s passport and a prohibition on foreign travel without court approval. The ex-governor is required to provide three sureties, all of whom must be responsible citizens owning landed properties in specified upscale areas of Abuja, such as Maitama, Asokoro, and Wuse 2.
Bello, alongside co-defendants Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, is facing a 16-count charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on allegations of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and unlawful possession of property. The trio pleaded not guilty during their arraignment on November 27.
Initially, Justice Anenih rejected Bello’s first bail application on December 10, deeming it premature and unprocedural as it was filed before his arrest. While the co-defendants were granted bail at N300 million each, Bello’s application was revisited on Thursday following a fresh submission by his counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN).
In her ruling, Justice Anenih stipulated that Bello must remain in Kuje Correctional Facility until he meets all bail conditions. The court also required him to submit recent passport photographs, a means of identification, and the title documents of the sureties’ properties.
The prosecution, led by Olukayode Enitan (SAN), did not oppose the bail application, leaving the decision to the judge’s discretion. He noted, “As with legal tradition, we should cooperate when it does not affect the course of justice. We leave this matter to Your Lordship’s discretion.”
The trial has been adjourned to January 29 and 30, 2025, for further proceedings.
