Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has pleaded not guilty to a 19-count charge of criminal breach of trust brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges allege that Bello diverted state funds to acquire property in Nigeria and abroad through proxies.
During the court session, an official read the charges to Bello, who acknowledged understanding them and entered a plea of not guilty.
Bello’s lawyer, Joseph Daudu (SAN), clarified that his client’s previous absence in court was not out of disrespect but a desire to fully defend himself. Daudu explained that Bello’s decision to challenge the court's jurisdiction up to the Supreme Court was a legitimate legal strategy, not defiance.
“It was an episode that could have been avoided, but it has come and gone. Things are clearer now,” Daudu said.
Both Daudu and the prosecution counsel, Dr. Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), are currently presenting arguments regarding Bello’s bail application.
The case underscores the EFCC’s continued pursuit of accountability for alleged financial misconduct by public officials. Further proceedings will determine the next steps in the trial.
