Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello has appealed to the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, to reconsider its bail conditions requiring him to present a landed property in the Maitama district.
During a hearing on Thursday, December 19, 2024, Bello’s counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN), urged Justice Maryann Anenih to allow properties from other highbrow areas like Asokoro, Wuse 2, or Guzape as alternatives.
“My Lord, obtaining Certificates of Occupancy and other title documents for properties in Maitama is particularly challenging due to the unique nature of the area,” Daudu argued. “Many individuals willing to stand as sureties are hesitant to part with original title documents, and Maitama is predominantly home to corporate establishments like Transcorp Hilton and NCC.”
The request was made as part of efforts to secure bail for Bello, who is facing charges of alleged money laundering and fraud totaling N110.4 billion. The case continues as the court deliberates on the plea for adjusted bail terms.
During the hearing, Bello’s counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN), informed the court that the session was scheduled to consider the defendant’s bail application. “We filed our application yesterday, December 18, 2024, and received the prosecution’s counter-affidavit the same day,” he explained.
Daudu emphasized the importance of bail for preparing Bello’s defense. “Unrestricted access to my client is necessary to focus on the trial. The charges are bailable, and there are critical documents only he can access. My Lord, the second and third defendants have already been granted bail, and procedural delays have been the only barrier to my client receiving similar relief.”
The prosecution, represented by Olukayode Eniton (SAN), did not oppose the bail application. “We confirm communication with the defense team. Based on assurances that the defendant will stand trial, we defer to your lordship’s discretion regarding bail terms and conditions,” he stated.
Justice Anenih subsequently granted Bello bail in the sum of N500 million, with three sureties of equal value. The sureties must be prominent Nigerians with properties in high-value areas such as Maitama, Jabi, Utako, Apo, Guzape, Garki, or Asokoro. Bello was also ordered to deposit his passport and travel documents with the court registrar and will remain in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service Centre, Kuje, until he meets the bail conditions.
For the co-defendants, Umar Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, the court reduced their bail amount from N300 million to N200 million. They were permitted to provide properties of equivalent value within the court’s jurisdiction.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Bello, Oricha, and Hudu on a 16-count charge relating to alleged criminal breach of trust and money laundering.
Justice Anenih adjourned the substantive trial to January 29, 2025.
