The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Friday, granted bail to Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, in the sum of ₦500 million with two sureties of equal amount.
The bail was granted after Bello pleaded not guilty to a 19-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accusing him of laundering ₦80 billion.
Court Proceedings
During the hearing, the EFCC’s lead counsel, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), informed the court of the prosecution’s decision to withdraw an earlier application to expedite the arraignment date, citing that it had been overtaken by events. Justice Emeka Nwite approved the withdrawal without objection from Bello’s legal team, led by Joseph Daudu (SAN).
After Bello entered his plea, Daudu addressed the court, explaining his previous absence in earlier proceedings. He clarified that the former governor had challenged the court’s jurisdiction, which was appealed up to the Supreme Court.
“There was no intent to disrespect the court; the defendant was merely exercising his legal rights,” Daudu stated, emphasizing Bello’s respect for the court.
Application for Bail
Moving the bail application, Daudu assured the court that Bello, a two-term governor of Kogi State, would attend all proceedings.
“The defendant, who served eight years as governor and traveled abroad only twice during that period, has no intention of absconding,” Daudu said. He urged the court to grant reasonable bail conditions, highlighting the professionalism of the prosecution counsel in handling the matter.
Pinheiro, for the EFCC, supported the bail request, acknowledging Daudu’s assurances and emphasizing the commission’s commitment to fair prosecution. “We are prosecutors, not persecutors,” Pinheiro remarked, adding that both sides had worked collaboratively to ease the court’s burden.
Bail Terms
Justice Nwite, in his ruling, granted Bello bail under the following conditions:
- ₦500 million bond with two sureties who must own landed property within the court’s jurisdiction.
- The sureties are required to provide sworn affidavits of means, and their title deeds will be verified by the court registrar.
- Bello must surrender his international passport and will remain in custody at Kuje Correctional Centre until the bail conditions are met.
Background
Before the bail hearing, Bello had been remanded over a separate ₦110 billion charge filed by the EFCC. The case continues as both sides prepare for trial.
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Opeoluwa Benson – Content Researcher
