Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, is currently facing a 19-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges encompass allegations of money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds amounting to ₦80.2 billion. These alleged offenses are said to have occurred during his tenure as governor.
Proceedings on January 29, 2025
On January 29, 2025, the Federal High Court in Abuja convened to continue the trial of Mr. Bello. The EFCC commenced its case by calling its first witness, Mr. Fabian Nworah, a property developer and chairman of Efab Properties Nigeria Limited. Mr. Nworah provided testimony regarding a property transaction that has become a focal point in the case.
Testimony of Fabian Nworah
Mr. Nworah testified that in 2020, his company sold a property located at No. 1 Ikogosi Street, Maitama, Abuja, for ₦550 million. The initial purchaser was identified as Mr. Shehu Bello; however, the name on the sale agreement was listed as Dr. Bello Ohiani. In 2023, Mr. Shehu Bello approached Efab Properties, stating that the property was under investigation by the EFCC and requested a refund of the purchase price. Following directives from the EFCC, Efab Properties refunded the ₦550 million in two installments: ₦400 million and ₦150 million, respectively.
Defense’s Objection and Court’s Ruling
During the proceedings, the defense team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) J.B. Daudu, raised objections to Mr. Nworah’s testimony. They argued that the prosecution had failed to provide them with the witness’s statement prior to the testimony, which they claimed was a breach of legal procedure. In response, the prosecution, represented by SAN Kemi Pinheiro, contended that the defense’s objections were merely tactics to delay the trial. After considering the arguments, Justice Maryanne Anenih overruled the defense’s objections, admitted the sale agreement and deed of assignment as exhibits, and ruled that the trial should proceed.
Adjournment and Future Dates
Following the witness’s testimony, Justice Anenih adjourned the trial to April 3, 2025. Additional trial dates have been scheduled for April 24 and May 6, 2025, to allow for the continuation of witness testimonies and the presentation of evidence.
Bail and Previous Court Appearances
In December 2024, Mr. Bello was granted bail by the Federal High Court in Abuja. The bail was set at ₦500 million, with the condition that he provides two sureties who own landed properties within the Federal Capital Territory. Mr. Bello pleaded not guilty to all charges during his arraignment. Prior to this, there had been delays in the arraignment process due to the absence of Mr. Bello’s legal representatives in court, which led to postponements.
Implications and Public Interest
The trial of Mr. Bello has garnered significant public attention, given his prominent political position and the substantial amount of public funds involved in the allegations. The outcome of this case is anticipated to have far-reaching implications for political accountability and the fight against corruption in Nigeria.
Next Steps
As the trial progresses, the court is expected to hear from additional witnesses and review more evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defense. The adjournment to April 3 allows both parties adequate time to prepare for the subsequent phases of the trial.
The legal proceedings against Mr. Bello underscore the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to address allegations of corruption and financial misconduct among public officials in Nigeria. The judiciary’s handling of this high-profile case will be closely watched as a measure of the country’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice.
