Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, has urged a Federal High Court in Abuja to reconsider the inclusion of a Maitama property as part of his bail conditions.
During the court session on December 19, 2024, Bello’s legal representative, J.B. Daudu SAN, explained that it is challenging to obtain Certificates of Occupancy and other essential documents for properties in Maitama. He added that many potential sureties are reluctant to part with their original property documents, as most buildings in Maitama are corporate establishments like hotels and offices.
Daudu proposed that the court consider other prestigious areas such as Asokoro, Guzape, or Wuse 2 when setting bail conditions. He also emphasized the importance of granting Bello unrestricted access to prepare adequately for his trial, as the charges against him are bailable.
The prosecution, led by Olukayode Eniton SAN, did not oppose Bello’s bail application. Eniton assured the court of the defendant’s commitment to standing trial and left the bail terms to the judge’s discretion.
After reviewing the arguments, Justice Maryann Anenih set Bello’s bail at ₦500 million. She also required three sureties with properties in Maitama, Jabi, Utako, or other highbrow areas. Bello was ordered to surrender his travel documents and remain in custody until all bail conditions were met.
For two co-defendants, Umar Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, the judge reduced their bail from ₦300 million to ₦200 million and allowed them to use properties within the court’s jurisdiction as collateral.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has charged Bello and his co-defendants with a 16-count offense involving money laundering and breach of trust totaling ₦110.4 billion. The court adjourned the case to January 29, 2024.