Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has been granted bail by the Federal High Court in Abuja after his arraignment on a 19-count charge of alleged diversion of ₦80.2 billion in public funds. The charges, filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), claim the funds were used to acquire properties in Nigeria and abroad through proxies. Bello pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Presiding over the case, Justice Emeka Nwite admitted Bello to bail at ₦500 million with two sureties in like sum. The sureties must own verifiable properties within the court’s jurisdiction, to be confirmed by the Deputy Registrar. The judge also ordered Bello to surrender his international passport to the court.
The EFCC’s case alleges that Bello engaged in criminal breach of trust and other financial misconduct during his tenure as governor. According to the commission, the alleged offenses fall under case number FHC/ABJ/CR/98/2024 and involve mismanagement of public funds meant for state development.
Justice Nwite emphasized the strict adherence to the bail conditions, stating that the former governor would remain in custody at Kuje Prison until the conditions are met. This directive underscores the court’s commitment to ensuring due process while allowing the accused to prepare his defense.
