Yahaya Bello, the immediate-past governor of Kogi State, has been released from Kuje Prison following his fulfillment of bail conditions set by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja.
The confirmation of his release was made on Friday evening, December 20, 2024, by Adamu Duza, spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), FCT Command.
“Yahaya Bello has been released after meeting the bail conditions. He was released this evening,” Duza stated. He added that the FCT Controller of NCoS, Ajibogun Olatubosun, was present to oversee the release process and ensure all protocols were properly observed.
Bail Conditions and Court Proceedings
Bello was granted bail on Thursday by Justice MaryAnne Anenih, who set the amount at ₦500 million. The former governor is facing charges of alleged misappropriation of ₦110 billion.
Earlier, on December 10, Justice Anenih had denied Bello’s initial bail application, ruling it premature as he had not yet surrendered himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a separate case, Bello is also standing trial before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja for alleged fraud involving ₦80.2 billion. On December 13, Justice Nwite similarly granted him bail in the sum of ₦500 million.
Next Steps
With his release, Bello is expected to continue addressing the legal proceedings tied to the allegations against him. Both cases underscore the high-profile legal challenges the former governor faces as he defends himself against accusations of financial misconduct.
