The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Friday, granted bail to the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, in the sum of ₦500 million with two sureties.
Delivering the ruling, Justice Emeka Nwite emphasized that granting bail lies at the court’s discretion. He stated, “I have reviewed the submissions from both counsels. While bail is inherently discretionary, the conduct of the defendant initially gave room for reconsideration. However, after the representations by both senior counsels, J.B. Daudu (SAN) for the defense and Kemi Pinheiro (SAN) for the prosecution, I am persuaded to grant the application.”
The terms of the bail require Yahaya Bello to provide two sureties who must own landed property within Abuja’s jurisdiction. Both sureties are to swear affidavits of means, with their property documents verified by the Chief Deputy Registrar. Additionally, Bello must deposit his international passport and provide two recent passport photographs along with the sureties’.
Justice Nwite adjourned the trial to February 24, 28, and March 6 and 7, 2025.
EFCC Charges and Arraignment
Bello faces a 19-count charge by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds amounting to ₦80.2 billion.
At the resumed hearing, EFCC’s counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, withdrew a previous application to expedite the arraignment date, citing changed circumstances. The court granted the withdrawal without objection from Bello’s counsel, Daudu.
The charges were subsequently read, and Bello pleaded not guilty. His counsel then sought bail, offering assurances that Bello posed no flight risk and would attend all trial dates. “As a two-term governor, my client traveled abroad only twice during his tenure. He has full respect for this court and will honor its proceedings,” Daudu said.
The defense also apologized for prior delays caused by jurisdictional challenges. “The defendant acted in good faith, believing he was defending himself. There was no intent to disrespect this court,” Daudu explained.
Prosecution’s Position on Bail
Although the prosecution had earlier opposed bail, Pinheiro did not object during the hearing, citing discussions with the defense to ensure fairness. “We are prosecutors, not persecutors. We accept the assurances from learned counsel that the defendant will comply with court proceedings,” he noted.
Pending Cases
Bello also faces separate charges amounting to ₦110.4 billion before Justice MaryAnne Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja. Justice Anenih had earlier remanded Bello in Kuje Correctional Facility pending his bail application, citing procedural issues.
Similarly, Justice Nwite ordered Bello’s continued remand in Kuje until the bail conditions are met.
