Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has regained his freedom after meeting the bail conditions set by the Federal High Court. Bello, who had been in custody at the Kuje Custodial Centre, was released on Friday evening.
The spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), FCT Command, Adamu Duza, confirmed the development, saying, “Yahaya Bello has been released after meeting bail conditions. He was released this evening. The Controller of NCoS FCT, Ajibogun Olatubosun, was present to ensure his smooth release and that all protocols were observed.”
Bello was granted bail on Thursday by Justice MaryAnne Anenih, who set the bail amount at N500 million. The conditions required Bello to provide three sureties, each owning property in high-value areas of Abuja, such as Maitama, Guzape, or Asokoro. Additionally, Bello was ordered to surrender his international passport to prevent him from traveling outside Nigeria without prior approval from the court.
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The former governor’s release followed swift compliance with these conditions, ensuring his freedom while awaiting trial.
Bello, alongside Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, is facing a 16-count charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges include conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and unlawful possession of property.
All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges. The case, which has attracted significant public attention, underscores the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to prosecute cases involving alleged financial misconduct by public officials.
Bello’s release has sparked discussions among Nigerians, with some expressing concerns about the leniency of the bail conditions, while others highlight the importance of due process in ensuring justice.
The trial is expected to continue in the coming weeks, as the court examines the evidence presented by the EFCC. Observers are keenly watching the proceedings, given the high-profile nature of the case and its implications for governance and accountability in Nigeria.