Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has regained his freedom after being released from Kuje Custodial Centre after meeting the stringent bail conditions set by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja.
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) spokesperson, Adamu Duza, confirmed Bello’s release on Friday evening, stating, “Yahaya Bello has been released after meeting the bail conditions. The Controller of NCoS FCT, Ajibogun Olatubosun, was present to ensure a smooth release.”
Bail Terms and Charges
Justice MaryAnne Anenih granted Bello bail on Thursday in the sum of N500 million. Key conditions included:
- Providing three sureties owning properties in Maitama, Guzape, or Asokoro, high-value areas in Abuja.
- Surrendering his passport.
- Obtaining court permission for any travel outside Nigeria.
Bello, alongside Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, faces a 16-count charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), including conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and unlawful property possession. All three have pleaded not guilty.
Bello’s initial bail application was denied on procedural grounds, while his co-defendants were granted bail earlier. A fresh application approved on Thursday facilitated his release.
This development marks a significant turn in Bello’s ongoing legal battle, with the case set to proceed in court.
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