Ex-Governor Yahaya Bello Granted N500m Bail Over Alleged N10.4bn Fraud
The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, on Thursday granted bail to the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, in the sum of N500 million. Bello is being prosecuted for alleged fraud involving N10.4 billion.
Justice MaryAnne Anenih, who presided over the case, ordered the ex-governor to surrender his passport and other travel documents. She ruled that Bello could not leave the country without the court’s explicit permission.
Bello is standing trial alongside two others, Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, on a 16-count charge bordering on conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully acquired property. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arraigned the trio on November 27, with all defendants pleading not guilty.
Bail Conditions for Yahaya Bello
Granting the fresh bail application filed by Bello’s counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN), Justice Anenih stipulated stringent conditions:
1. Bello must provide three sureties, each worth N500 million.
2. The sureties must be responsible landowners in high-value areas of Abuja, including Maitama, Guzape, Apo, Wuse 2, Garki, Utako, or Asokoro.
3. The sureties are required to submit the title documents of their properties, two recent passport photographs, and valid means of identification to the court registrar.
4. Bello must also submit two recent passport photographs and remain in the Kuje Correctional Facility until all bail conditions are met.
Previous Bail Denial
Justice Anenih had earlier rejected Bello’s initial bail application on December 10, describing it as premature since it was filed before his arrest or arraignment. However, the court granted bail to his co-defendants at N300 million each.
Prosecution’s Position on Bail
During Thursday’s proceedings, the prosecution, led by Olukayode Enitan (SAN), chose not to oppose the fresh bail application, leaving the decision to the judge’s discretion. Enitan emphasized that the prosecution’s stance was in line with legal tradition, ensuring cooperation where it does not compromise justice.
Adjournment for Trial
After listening to submissions from both the defence and prosecution, Justice Anenih approved the bail application and scheduled the trial to commence on January 29 and 30, 2025.
The case, which has drawn significant public attention, underscores the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to address allegations of corruption in public office.
