Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has been released from the Kuje Minimum Custodial Centre in Abuja. His release, confirmed on December 20, 2024, came after meeting the Federal High Court’s strict bail conditions, including a ₦500 million bond.

Bello’s return home was met with celebrations as his supporters and allies gathered at his residence. Among those present was Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, who joined the crowd in welcoming Bello. Videos of the joyful event, showing the former governor smiling and interacting with supporters, quickly went viral on social media.

Bello’s spokesperson, Adamu Duza, assured the public that all legal protocols were properly followed during his release.

The former governor, along with co-defendants Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, is facing 16 charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges accuse them of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and unlawful possession of property. The case involves an alleged ₦110 billion fraud during Bello’s tenure as governor.

Despite these accusations, Bello and his co-defendants have maintained their innocence. The legal battle is expected to continue as the EFCC pursues the case.