Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, is now in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja following allegations of money laundering and misappropriation of ₦110 billion. This comes after months of evasion and legal battles against his arraignment.
The EFCC had declared Bello wanted in April 2024 after numerous failed attempts to secure his arrest and arraignment. Despite initial charges involving ₦80 billion, the commission recently amended the allegations to include 16 counts of money laundering, increasing the laundered sum to over ₦110 billion. Bello is accused of purchasing 12 properties in Abuja using illicit funds, contrary to the provisions of Section 311 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria.
Bello’s legal team has repeatedly attempted to halt his trial. His appeals to the Court of Appeal and attempts to relocate his trial to Lokoja from Abuja were dismissed. Despite a public summons issued by Justice Maryanne Anenih requiring Bello to appear on October 24 and later extended to November 14, he failed to comply.
Efforts to arrest Bello were reportedly obstructed by his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, including incidents in April and September where Ododo allegedly facilitated Bello’s escape.
The EFCC, represented by counsel Jamiu Agoro, has sought the court’s approval to paste a hearing notice at Bello’s last known address. The commission has emphasized its determination to proceed with the trial, even suggesting arraignment in absentia if Bello fails to appear by the next court date, November 27, 2024.
The case has reignited public discourse on accountability among Nigerian political leaders. EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to ensuring justice prevails.
Bello’s detention marks a pivotal development in this high-profile corruption case, as the nation awaits the next phase of the trial.
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