Court Grants Former Governor Yahaya Bello N500 Million Bail

A High Court in the Federal Capital Territory has granted Yahaya Bello, the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, bail in the sum of N500 million. This decision was made after Bello’s lawyers filed a fresh bail application, following an initial rejection due to premature filing.

Bello is currently facing a money laundering trial, alongside two others, involving N110 billion. He has pleaded not guilty to the 16-count charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

During the hearing, Bello’s counsel, Joseph Daudu, informed the court that discussions had taken place with the prosecution team, resulting in an agreement to ensure a speedy trial. Daudu urged the court to grant the bail application, requesting that the bail conditions be reviewed to include properties across the Federal Capital Territory. “We do not want to make the matter contentious,” Daudu said, emphasizing the need for a smooth trial process.

The prosecution counsel, Olukayode Enitan, acknowledged the discussions between the defence and prosecution teams, assuring the court of their cooperation in expediting the trial. “As with the legal tradition that we should cooperate with members of the bar when it does not affect the course of justice, we have decided not to make this contentious,” Enitan said.

Justice Maryann Anenih granted Bello bail, citing that the offence was bailable. The bail conditions include three sureties, who must be notable Nigerians with landed property in designated areas. Bello is also required to deposit his international passport and other travel documents with the court, and will remain at Kuje Correctional Centre until the bail conditions are met.