Former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello to Remain in EFCC Custody Until December 10
ABUJA, Nigeria — Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, will remain in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) until at least December 10, following a court ruling in Abuja on Wednesday.
Justice Maryann Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory High Court denied a bail application for Bello, citing objections raised by the EFCC. The anti-graft agency argued that Bello had previously failed to appear for trial on multiple occasions, undermining the judicial process.
Bello, along with co-defendants Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, pleaded not guilty to a 16-count indictment brought by the EFCC. The charges include conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully obtained property.
Bail Application Sparks Legal Debate
Bello’s legal team, led by Joseph Daudu, SAN, a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association, urged the court to grant bail, asserting that Bello enjoys a presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
“This court must recognize my client’s fundamental rights,” Daudu argued, emphasizing that bail would allow Bello to adequately prepare his defense. The defense also highlighted that the former governor was only served with the charges late on November 26 and voluntarily appeared in court in compliance with a summons.
However, the EFCC, represented by senior prosecutor Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, opposed the application, contending it was procedurally premature since it was filed before the defendants’ formal arraignment.
“This court only assumed jurisdiction upon the arraignment of the defendants,” Pinheiro said. “It is only after arraignment that the issue of bail can properly arise.”
Allegations of Extensive Financial Misconduct
Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2023, stands accused of embezzling over ₦110 billion during his tenure. According to the EFCC, he and his co-defendants misappropriated state funds to acquire multiple high-value properties in Abuja and abroad, including:
- No. 35 Danube Street, Maitama District, Abuja (₦950 million)
- No. 1160 Cadastral Zone C03, Gwarimpa II District, Abuja (₦100 million)
- No. 2 Justice Chukwudifu Oputa Street, Asokoro, Abuja (₦920 million)
- A hotel apartment in Dubai valued at over 5.6 million dirhams.
The EFCC further alleged that the defendants funneled funds to foreign accounts, transferring $570,330 and $556,265 to TD Bank, USA, and received ₦677.8 million in unexplained payments from Bespoque Business Solution Limited.
Next Steps
The EFCC has expressed readiness to commence its case against the defendants, with several witnesses reportedly available to testify. However, the defense objected to an immediate trial, arguing for more time to prepare.
Justice Anenih scheduled a hearing on December 10 to deliver a ruling on the bail application. Until then, Bello and his co-defendants will remain in EFCC custody.
The case has drawn significant public attention, with critics highlighting the high stakes involved in combating corruption in Nigeria’s political landscape.