BREAKING: Ex-Governor Yahaya Bello Granted N500m Bail by FCT High Court

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has granted the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, bail in the sum of N500 million. Justice Maryann Anenih delivered the ruling on Thursday, requiring Bello to provide three sureties in the same amount.

The bail decision comes after Justice Anenih initially rejected Bello’s application on December 10, deeming it premature since it was filed before the defendant appeared in court or was taken into custody. Following that, his legal team submitted a fresh application for bail.

Bello is facing a trial on 16 counts of alleged money laundering involving N110 billion, alongside two other defendants. He pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

During Thursday’s hearing, Bello’s lead counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, informed the court that the defense had filed a further affidavit in response to the prosecution’s objections. However, Daudu requested to withdraw the affidavit to avoid unnecessary contention, a motion the prosecution did not oppose.

Both defense and prosecution counsels confirmed ongoing discussions to ensure a speedy trial. Daudu also urged the court to adjust bail conditions for all three defendants, including expanding the range of acceptable locations for surety properties within the FCT.

EFCC counsel Olukayode Enitan, SAN, expressed no objection to the court exercising its discretion in granting bail, emphasizing the importance of cooperation within the legal process.

Justice Anenih ruled that the charges against Bello were bailable and granted him bail with the following conditions: a N500 million bond and three sureties with notable standing. The sureties must own landed properties in specific areas within Abuja, including Maitama, Jabi, Utako, Apo, Guzape, Garki, and Asokoro. Bello must surrender his international passport and travel documents to the court and will remain in Kuje Correctional Centre until the bail conditions are fulfilled.

For the 2nd and 3rd defendants, Umaru Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, the court granted bail at N300 million each, with two sureties owning properties in specified FCT locations. They are also required to deposit their travel documents and remain in custody until the bail conditions are met.

The case underscores the court’s commitment to balancing justice with procedural fairness as the trial progresses.

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