The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has granted bail to former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, who is facing charges of alleged misappropriation of N110 billion from the state’s coffers. Justice Maryanne Anenih, presiding over the case, granted the former governor bail on Thursday in the sum of N500 million, with three sureties in like sum.
Mr. Bello, who is facing a 16-count charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), pleaded not guilty to the allegations. The charges include fraud and money laundering involving funds allegedly diverted during his tenure as governor.
The court had initially refused Mr. Bello’s bail application on December 10, citing procedural irregularities. Justice Anenih had ruled that the application was premature, as it was filed before the former governor was in custody or arraigned before the court. Following the initial ruling, Mr. Bello refiled the bail application, which was reconsidered on Thursday.
During the hearing, Mr. Bello’s lead counsel, Joseph Daudu (SAN), informed the court that the defence had engaged in discussions with the prosecution team to ensure a swift trial. He urged the court to grant bail under terms similar to those previously granted to the co-defendants. Mr. Daudu also requested that the scope of properties acceptable as sureties be expanded to include other areas in the Federal Capital Territory, not limited to Maitama.
The EFCC’s prosecuting counsel, Olukayode Enitan (SAN), confirmed the discussions with the defence team and assured the court of the prosecution’s willingness to cooperate in expediting the trial. He stated that the decision to oppose or support the bail application was ultimately left to the judge’s discretion.
In her ruling, Justice Anenih noted that the charges against Mr. Bello are bailable and granted the application. The bail conditions require three sureties who must be prominent individuals owning landed properties in specific Abuja districts, including Maitama, Jabi, Utako, Apo, Guzape, Garki, and Asokoro. Additionally, Mr. Bello must surrender his international passport and other travel documents to the court. The judge ordered that he remain in custody at the Kuje Correctional Centre until the bail conditions are fulfilled.
The court also set January 29, 2025, as the date for the commencement of the trial. Meanwhile, Mr. Bello is also facing separate charges of money laundering involving N80 billion before the Federal High Court in Abuja. That court has similarly granted him bail, with trial scheduled to commence early next year.
The EFCC continues to press charges against the former governor, highlighting what it describes as a commitment to ensuring accountability and justice in the management of public funds.
By Saifullahi Muhammad
