Abuja Court Grants ₦500 Million Bail to Ex-Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello Over ₦110.4 Billion Fraud
The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has granted bail to Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, in the sum of ₦500 million. Bello is facing trial over an alleged ₦110.4 billion fraud. The ruling, delivered on Thursday by Justice MaryAnne Anenih, came after the court considered a fresh bail application filed by his counsel.
The bail conditions stipulate that Bello must provide three sureties who own properties in prime areas of Abuja, such as Maitama, Guzape, Apo, Wuse 2, or Asokoro. Additionally, Bello is required to submit two passport photographs and a valid means of identification, including an International Passport or National Identity Card. Until all conditions are met, Bello will remain in custody at the Kuje Correctional Facility. The court also restricted him from traveling without prior approval.
Bello is being tried alongside Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu on 16 counts brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which include charges of criminal breach of trust and money laundering. The second and third defendants were granted bail in the sum of ₦300 million each, under similar conditions requiring property ownership in high-value areas.
Justice Anenih had previously denied Bello’s initial bail request on December 10, citing procedural issues. However, during Thursday’s proceedings, Bello’s counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN), argued for more lenient bail terms, noting the difficulty in securing sureties with properties in the specified locations. The prosecution counsel, Olukayode Enitan, acknowledged ongoing discussions with the defense and left the matter to the court’s discretion.
In her ruling, Justice Anenih stated that the charges against Bello were bailable and approved the application after careful review. She emphasized that the defendants’ constitutional rights were considered in arriving at the decision.
The trial has been adjourned to January 29 and 30, 2025, for further hearings. The case has drawn significant public interest due to the high-profile nature of the allegations and the individuals involved.
