- A Federal Capital Territory High Court has denied bail to Yahaya Bello, the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, in an alleged N110 billion fraud case.
- The court described Bello’s bail application as premature and incompetent since it was filed before his detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
- Bello is facing a 16-count charge, including conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully obtained property.
The Federal Capital Territory High Court’s decision to deny bail to Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, marks a significant development in the alleged N110 billion fraud case against him. Justice Maryann Anenih ruled that Bello’s bail application was premature and incompetent, as it was filed before his detention by the EFCC.
Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, is accused of misusing state funds to acquire properties, including several high-end residences in Abuja and a hotel apartment in Dubai. The EFCC alleged that Bello and his co-defendants transferred millions of dollars to TD Bank, USA, and possessed unlawfully obtained property, including N677.8 million from Bespoque Business Solution Limited.
The court’s decision underscores the importance of following proper legal procedures when seeking bail. The trial is expected to continue in the coming weeks.
