The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has granted bail to the immediate-past Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, who is standing trial for alleged fraud involving ₦10.4 billion. Justice MaryAnne Anenih granted Bello bail on Thursday under stringent conditions, following his fresh application through his counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN).
Bail Conditions
The judge set the bail at ₦500 million with three sureties in like sum. The sureties must be responsible citizens and landowners in specified areas of Abuja, including Maitama, Guzape, Apo, Wuse 2, Garki, Utako, or Asokoro.
Additional conditions include:
- Submission of the sureties’ property documents to the court registrar.
- Provision of two recent passport photographs by the sureties.
- Bello’s deposit of his passport and other travel documents.
Justice Anenih also ruled that Bello cannot leave the country without the court's permission and will remain in the Kuje correctional facility until all bail conditions are met.
Co-Defendants and Initial Bail Denial
Bello is being tried alongside Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu on 16 charges, including conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully obtained property. The defendants had earlier pleaded not guilty to the charges.
On December 10, the court denied Bello’s initial bail application, deeming it premature and unprocedural as it was filed before his arrest or court appearance. However, bail was granted to his co-defendants at ₦300 million each.
Prosecution and Defence Collaboration
During Thursday's hearing, the prosecuting counsel, Olukayode Enitan (SAN), confirmed discussions with the defence for a speedy trial. He stated that the prosecution would not oppose the fresh bail application, leaving the decision to the judge's discretion.
“The legal tradition calls for cooperation between counsels when it does not undermine justice,” Enitan remarked, acknowledging the court's ultimate discretion in granting bail.
Justice Anenih has adjourned the case for trial on January 29 and 30, 2025. Meanwhile, Bello must fulfill the stringent bail conditions to secure his release from custody.
This high-profile case highlights Nigeria's ongoing efforts to address allegations of corruption and uphold accountability within its political sphere.
