The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, bail set at ₦500 million amid allegations of embezzling ₦80.2 billion in state funds. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arraigned Bello on 19 charges, including criminal breach of trust and abuse of office, to which he pleaded not guilty.
Justice Emeka Nwite, who presided over the case, ruled that the bail conditions must include two sureties in like sum, each owning property within the court’s jurisdiction. Bello was also directed to surrender his international passport and will remain in Kuje Prison until the bail conditions are met.
The EFCC alleges that Bello misappropriated public funds to acquire properties both locally and internationally through intermediaries. The charges, filed under case number FHC/ABJ/CR/98/2024, accuse the former governor of financial misconduct during his time in office.
The court emphasized the importance of strict compliance with the bail conditions to prevent interference in the ongoing investigation. Justice Nwite adjourned the trial to January 29, 2025, for further proceedings.
