October 30, 2024 – Abuja, Nigeria
The Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed its decision on a request by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to try Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi State, in his absence. The ruling is now set for January 21, 2025, as announced by Justice Emeka Nwite on Wednesday.
The EFCC’s case against Bello involves allegations of money laundering and financial misconduct, with claims that he illicitly handled a sum totaling approximately N80 billion. Despite several summonses, Bello has reportedly failed to appear in court to address these charges.
In related developments, the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama recently dismissed oral bail requests from Bello’s co-defendants Abdulsalam Hudu and Umar Oricho. Both individuals are implicated alongside the former governor in a larger fraud case involving up to N110.4 billion. Justice Maryanne Anenih, overseeing this separate matter, upheld that all bail applications must be formally submitted, rejecting oral requests as procedurally insufficient.
The EFCC had initially filed 19 charges against Bello, his nephew Ali Bello, and associates, implicating them in money laundering offenses amounting to over N80 billion. However, following new investigations, additional charges raised the alleged amount to N110.4 billion.
During recent proceedings, EFCC counsel Rotimi Oyedepo informed the court that the agency has adhered to a court order mandating that a public summons for Bello’s appearance be published in a national newspaper. This directive, issued on October 3, followed Bello’s failure to present himself for arraignment on the updated 16 charges.
The EFCC maintains that Bello’s continued absence is a breach of court orders, underscoring the Commission’s intent to proceed with prosecution if he remains uncooperative. The adjournment to January will determine if the court will authorize an in-absentia trial for the former governor.
