Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, accused of embezzling ₦10.4 billion, has been granted bail by the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja. Justice MaryAnne Anenih approved the ₦500 million bail on Thursday but imposed strict conditions, including a travel restriction requiring Bello to surrender his passport.
“The first defendant must not travel without the permission of this court and shall remain in the Kuje correctional facility until the bail conditions are met,” Justice Anenih ruled.
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 possession of unlawfully obtained property. All three pleaded not guilty during their initial arraignment on November 27.
Justice Anenih had previously rejected Bello’s initial bail application on December 10, describing it as premature since it was filed before the former governor was arrested or brought before the court. However, the co-defendants were granted bail of ₦300 million each.
On Thursday, Bello’s lawyer, J.B. Daudu (SAN), presented a fresh application for bail, emphasizing a mutual agreement between the prosecution and defense to ensure a fair and speedy trial.
Prosecuting counsel Olukayode Enitan (SAN) confirmed the discussions, stating, “We have decided not to oppose the bail application but leave it to Your Lordship’s discretion.”
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The court imposed stringent conditions for Bello’s release. In addition to the ₦500 million bail, the former governor must present three sureties who are landowners in specific high-value areas of Abuja, including Maitama, Asokoro, and Wuse 2. The sureties must submit property documents, recent passport photographs, and valid identification to the court registrar. Bello himself must provide two copies of his passport photographs and a photocopy of his ID card.
Justice Anenih emphasized that these conditions must be met before Bello can leave Kuje correctional facility.
Bello’s lawyer, J.B. Daudu, expressed optimism about the trial, stating, “We are committed to a speedy trial to ensure justice is served.”
The case has been adjourned to January 29 and 30, 2024, for the continuation of the trial.