Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal Excessive Courtroom in Abuja, on December 13, 2024, granted former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello bail within the sum of ₦500 million following his arraignment on a 19-count cost of alleged fraud and cash laundering involving ₦80.2 billion.
Bello, by his counsel, J.B. Daudu SAN, tendered an apology to Justice Emeka Nwite for his earlier absence from courtroom proceedings. Daudu clarified that the absence was resulting from procedural challenges on jurisdiction and never an act of disrespect.
“My lord, I want to apologise for any impression that the defendant refused to look earlier than your Lordship,” Daudu mentioned, including that Bello holds the courtroom within the highest regard and can adhere to future courtroom dates.
The Financial and Monetary Crimes Fee (EFCC) charged Bello with conspiring with others to divert over ₦80 billion between 2016 and 2023. The costs, which embody fraudulent transactions in each naira and foreign currency echange, are in violation of the Cash Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011.
The defence counsel appealed for leniency in granting bail, commending the prosecution’s cooperation. Prosecution counsel Dr Kemi Pinheiro SAN acknowledged the defendant’s apology and professionalism throughout proceedings however left bail situations to the courtroom’s discretion.
Justice Nwite granted bail on stringent situations, together with the submission of Bello’s worldwide passport, two sureties with properties inside the courtroom’s jurisdiction, and different documentation. The choose emphasised that the choice was influenced by assurances from the defence counsel.
Bello, who pleaded not responsible to all costs, will stay in custody on the Nigerian Correctional Centre, Kuje, till the bail situations are met. The courtroom adjourned the trial to February 24 and 28, in addition to March 6 and seven, 2025, for continuation.
