A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Maryann Anenih, has ordered the remand of Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, at Kuje Correctional Centre pending the hearing of his bail application.
Bello is facing a ₦110 billion money laundering charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Alongside him, two others are also being prosecuted in the case.
During the session, Justice Anenih declined to grant Bello’s bail request, deeming the application premature as it was filed before his detention or court arraignment. The case has been adjourned to January 29, 30, and February 25, 27, 2024 for further hearings.
The judge emphasized that the bail application, dated November 22, was filed before Bello’s arraignment, which occurred on November 27. She noted that under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), bail applications can only be made after a defendant has been arrested, detained, or formally arraigned. Bello’s counsel, Joseph Daudu (SAN), argued that sufficient grounds were presented to justify bail, but this was countered by EFCC’s counsel, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), who maintained that the application was procedurally flawed.
While Bello remains in custody, his co-defendants received conditional bail.
Umar Oricha (2nd Defendant) was granted bail at ₦300 million, with two sureties who must own property within the Maitama District of the FCT. Oricha must remain at Kuje Correctional Centre until these conditions are met and is restricted from traveling without court approval.
Abdulsalami Hudu (3rd Defendant) was also granted bail under identical terms, including the need for separate sureties and passport forfeiture to the court registrar.
Justice Anenih clarified that each surety could only post a bond for one defendant.
Bello and the other defendants are accused of laundering public funds during his tenure as Kogi State governor. The EFCC contends that their actions constitute significant financial misconduct, warranting strict oversight and judicial accountability.
Further developments in the case are expected during the upcoming hearings.
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