The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja, on Thursday granted bail of N500 million to Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, who is facing allegations of N10.4 billion fraud.
Justice MaryAnne Anenih ruled that Bello must surrender his passport, barring him from leaving Nigeria without court approval. Bello is being tried alongside Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu on 16 counts of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully obtained property.
The trio was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on November 27 and pleaded not guilty. Initially, on December 10, Justice Anenih denied Bello’s bail request, citing it as premature since it was filed before his arrest. However, the court granted bail to the co-defendants at N300 million each and scheduled further proceedings for January.
During Thursday’s hearing, Bello’s counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN), submitted a renewed bail application, which the court granted under strict conditions. Justice Anenih required three sureties, each owning landed property in specific high-value areas of Abuja, including Maitama, Guzape, Apo, Wuse 2, Garki, Utako, or Asokoro. The sureties must submit their property documents, two passport photographs, and proof of identification to the court registrar.
The judge emphasized that Bello must remain in the Kuje Correctional Facility until all bail conditions are met and reiterated that he cannot travel without explicit court permission.
During the hearing, prosecution counsel Olukayode Enitan (SAN) confirmed discussions between both legal teams and opted not to oppose the bail application, leaving the decision to the court’s discretion.
Justice Anenih subsequently adjourned the trial to January 29 and 30, allowing for a speedy trial as both parties committed to efficient proceedings.
