In the ₦80.2 billion fraud case, Yahaya Bello has issued an apology, as the court has granted him a bail of ₦500 million. The former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Adoza Bello, appeared before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, on December 13, 2024. He expressed regret for his prior absence from the trial through his attorney, J.B. Daudu SAN. “My lord, on behalf of the defendant, I apologize for any perceived disrespect toward this honourable court,” stated Daudu. The defence counsel further clarified that Bello’s absence was a matter of procedure rather than contempt.
He elaborated that the defendant had instructed his previous counsel to contest the court’s jurisdiction, resulting in the case being elevated to the Supreme Court. “This was not an act of disrespect; however, it was a procedural move,” Daudu emphasized. He also assured the court that Bello is committed to attending future proceedings, except in cases of illness or unforeseen circumstances. “As a two-term governor, the defendant holds this court in the highest regard,” Daudu remarked.
Bello is confronted with a staggering 19-count indictment, which includes charges of criminal breach of trust and money laundering in accordance with the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act of 2011 (as amended). One particular charge asserts that he colluded with others in February 2016 to divert over ₦80.2 billion, which is suspected to be derived from illicit activities.
Furthermore, additional charges outline fraudulent dealings involving billions of naira and foreign currencies that transpired between 2016 and 2023. Bello, however, has pleaded not guilty to all allegations. In pursuit of bail, Daudu praised the prosecution's collaborative spirit. “I must express profound respect for Dr. Kemi Pinheiro SAN, who has acted professionally by sharing the counter-affidavit in advance to avoid unnecessary disputes,” he remarked. In reply, Pinheiro acknowledged the defence counsel’s professionalism while also noting the defendant’s apology. “The EFCC is a professional body, not a persecutorial one. Nevertheless, the determination regarding bail lies solely with the court,” he stated. When delivering his ruling, Justice Nwite emphasized his independence, recognizing Daudu’s assurances. “Without these assurances, my ruling might have been different,” the judge commented.
The court has granted Bello bail, which is set at ₦500 million, along with two sureties of a similar amount. (These sureties) must possess properties within the jurisdiction of the court. Bello is also required to surrender his international passport, submit passport photographs and swear an affidavit of means. Until (the) bail conditions are fulfilled, Bello is to remain confined at the Nigerian Correctional Centre in Kuje. The trial is slated to resume on February 24, February 28, March 6 and March 7, 2025; however, this timeline may be subject to change because of unforeseen circumstances. Although the conditions seem stringent, they are necessary to ensure compliance.
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