The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, in the sum of N500 million with two sureties in like sum.
This decision followed his plea of not guilty to 19 counts of alleged money laundering involving N80 billion, brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
During Friday’s proceedings, EFCC counsel Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, informed the court of the prosecution’s decision to withdraw an earlier application for a change in the arraignment date, citing that it had been overtaken by events. The defendant’s counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, raised no objections, and Justice Emeka Nwite granted the request.
After Bello entered his plea, Daudu clarified the reasons for the defendant’s absence at prior hearings, explaining that his client had challenged the court’s jurisdiction, a matter that went up to the Supreme Court. He emphasized that the challenge was not a sign of disrespect to the court.
Moving for bail, Daudu assured the court of Bello’s commitment to attending his trial, highlighting his exemplary record as a two-term governor who rarely traveled during his tenure. He urged the court to impose reasonable bail conditions that his client could meet.
In response, Pinheiro commended Daudu for his professionalism, stating that the prosecution would not oppose the bail request based on assurances from the defense. He affirmed the EFCC’s role as a prosecutorial agency focused on justice, not persecution.
Ruling on the application, Justice Nwite acknowledged the submissions of both counsels and altered his earlier stance, granting bail under the following conditions:
- N500 million bail bond.
- Two sureties who must own landed property within the court’s jurisdiction.
- Submission of title deeds and sworn affidavits of means by the sureties, to be verified by the court registrar.
- Surrender of the defendant’s international passport.
Bello will remain in custody at Kuje Correctional Centre until the bail conditions are fulfilled.
This comes after an earlier remand order in connection with a separate N110 billion charge brought against Bello by the EFCC. Justice Nwite has scheduled February 24, 2025, for further hearing in the matter.
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