Former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has been granted N500 million bail by the Federal Capital Territory High Court in relation to an alleged N110.4 billion fraud case brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The bail was approved by Justice Maryann E. Anenih on Thursday.
After Bello’s initial bail request was rejected by the court on December 10, 2024, as premature, his refiled bail application was successful this time around. His co-defendant, Shuabu Oricha, was also granted N300 million bail by the court.
Bello and his co-defendants, Shuabu Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, had previously pleaded not guilty to the 16-count charges brought against them. The court had issued a public summons against Bello in October 2024 when he failed to appear for arraignment.
During the court proceedings, Bello’s lawyer argued for bail, emphasizing his client’s right to enjoy his liberty before trial. The EFCC objected to the bail application, citing procedural issues. Ultimately, Bello was granted bail in the sum of N500 million with certain conditions.
Yahaya Bello’s legal troubles began with an investigation by the EFCC over alleged fraud during his time as governor. Despite the accusations against him, Bello has maintained his innocence throughout the legal process.
