The Federal Capital Territory High Court has ordered the detention of Yahaya Bello, former Governor of Kogi State, at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) facility. Bello, along with two co-defendants, is facing charges of alleged fraud amounting to ₦110.4 billion.
The trio—Bello, Shuabu Oricha, and Abdulsalami Hudu—pleaded not guilty to a 16-count charge of conspiracy and criminal breach of trust on Wednesday. Justice Maryann E. Anenih, presiding over the case, postponed the bail ruling to *December 10, 2024*, leaving the accused in EFCC custody.
Defense counsel, J.B. Daudu, SAN, argued for bail, emphasising Bello’s compliance with the court summons. “A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty,” Daudu asserted, urging the court to grant Bello temporary liberty to prepare for trial.
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However, EFCC counsel Kemi Piniero, SAN, opposed the motion, labeling the bail application premature. “Bail can only be considered post-arraignment. Filing beforehand contradicts legal procedures,” he stated.
Justice Anenih reserved her decision, reiterating the need to balance procedural integrity with the defendants’ rights.
Background to the Charges
The EFCC alleges that Bello misappropriated public funds during his tenure as Kogi State governor. The case has been marred by legal delays, with Bello previously accused of evading court appearances. Last month, the EFCC sought to prosecute him in absentia, citing five failed proceedings due to his absence.
A source at the EFCC Headquarters revealed that Bello was detained on Tuesday following his interrogation over the alleged fraud. His co-defendants, Oricha and Hudu, are also implicated in the same charges.
The controversy extends beyond this trial, as Bello faces a separate case at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The EFCC claims the Kogi State government had previously used “immunity” clauses to shield Bello from prosecution.
The case has captured public attention due to the staggering ₦110.4 billion sum involved. Analysts argue the trial represents a litmus test for Nigeria’s fight against corruption, a cornerstone of EFCC’s mission.
The December 10 ruling will determine whether Bello and his co-defendants can await trial outside custody or remain detained.
