The Federal High Court in Abuja has approved bail for Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, for the sum of N500 million. The court also required two sureties who must meet the same financial condition.

Yahaya Bello faces 19 charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). These include allegations of money laundering involving N80 billion. Despite the charges, the former governor pleaded not guilty.

During Friday’s hearing, the EFCC’s lawyer, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, told the court they were withdrawing a previous application meant to speed up the case, as it was no longer relevant. Justice Emeka Nwite agreed to this request.

Bello’s lawyer, Joseph Daudu, SAN, used the opportunity to explain his absence during earlier hearings, saying it was due to legal challenges over the court’s jurisdiction. He clarified that Bello’s actions were not disrespectful but aimed at defending himself within the legal framework.

The defense team also requested bail, assuring the court that the former governor, known for traveling only twice during his eight years in office, would attend all court sessions. Daudu emphasized that there was no risk of his client fleeing and urged the court to provide reasonable bail terms.

The EFCC counsel, while confirming the defense’s assurances, stated that their aim was to pursue justice professionally and not to persecute. Both legal teams agreed not to oppose the bail application to ease the court’s workload.

Justice Nwite granted bail on the conditions that the sureties own property within the court’s jurisdiction and submit the title deeds for verification. Bello must also surrender his international passport and will remain at Kuje Prison until the bail terms are met.

This development follows an earlier remand of the former governor over separate allegations involving N110 billion. The court has scheduled the next hearing for February 24, 2025.