Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi State, has pleaded not guilty to 19 counts of money laundering leveled against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The charges, which amount to an alleged N80 billion fraud, include the diversion of public funds for the acquisition of properties in Nigeria and abroad.
During the arraignment at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Bello denied all allegations after the charges were read to him.
The presiding judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, granted the former governor bail in the sum of N500 million, with two sureties in like sum. The sureties must own landed properties within the court’s jurisdiction, submit affidavits of means, and have their property title deeds verified by the court registrar.
Additionally, Bello was ordered to surrender his international passport and will remain in custody at the Kuje Correctional Centre until he fulfills the bail conditions.
Joseph Daudu, Bello’s lawyer, moved the bail application, assuring the court of his client’s commitment to attend all trial sessions. Daudu argued that Bello’s previous legal challenges to the court’s jurisdiction were not acts of disrespect but measures to ensure a fair defense.
“The defendant, a two-term governor of Kogi state, who traveled only twice during his eight years in service, will always be present in court,” Daudu said. He emphasized that there was no risk of his client absconding.
Kemi Pinheiro, counsel for the prosecution, did not oppose the bail application, stating the EFCC’s readiness to proceed with the trial.
“We accept the assurances of the very eminent SAN that the defendant will make himself available subject to your lordship’s discretionary terms that may be imposed,” Pinheiro said.
Justice Nwite, while granting the bail, stated: “Sureties must be landed property owners within the jurisdiction of this court. They must swear to an affidavit of means. The title deeds of the property are to be verified by the court registrar.”
