The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has granted bail to the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, who is facing charges of criminal breach of trust and money laundering involving N110.4 billion. The court, presided over by Justice MaryAnne Anenih, approved Bello’s bail at N500 million, with stringent conditions, after an initial rejection of his bail application.
Bail Conditions Outlined
Delivering the ruling on Thursday, Justice Anenih specified that Bello must present three responsible sureties, all of whom must be landowners in Abuja’s high-profile areas, including Maitama, Guzape, Apo, Wuse 2, or Asokoro. The sureties are required to submit their property documents to the court’s registrar, accompanied by two recent passport photographs.
Additionally, the former governor must provide:
- Two copies of his recent passport photograph.
- A photocopy of a valid means of identification (such as an International Passport or National Identity Card), with the original presented for verification.
The judge further ordered that Bello must seek the court’s permission before traveling and remain in the Kuje Correctional Facility until the bail terms are fulfilled.
Bail for Co-Defendants
The court also granted bail to Bello’s co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, who are jointly facing 16 counts of charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). They were each granted bail in the sum of N300 million with two sureties.
Timeline of Events
Bello was first taken into custody by the EFCC on November 26, 2024, and arraigned in court the following day. During a December 10 hearing, the court rejected his initial bail application, deeming it procedurally flawed as it had been filed prematurely—on November 22, before his arraignment.
Justice Anenih explained at the time, “The application, having been filed prematurely, is hereby refused.” The ruling led to the need for a fresh bail application, which the court entertained and approved on Thursday.
The Allegations
The charges against Bello and his co-defendants revolve around alleged mismanagement and laundering of public funds amounting to N110.4 billion during his tenure as governor. The EFCC alleges that the funds were diverted through fraudulent means, in violation of public trust.
What’s Next?
With bail conditions now set, all eyes are on whether Bello and his co-defendants will meet the stipulated requirements to regain their freedom pending the continuation of their trial. The case marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption at the highest levels of government.
Further updates on the trial proceedings are expected in the coming days.
