Yahaya Bello Granted N500m Bail in Court

The Federal Capital Territory High Court has approved bail for former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, setting the amount at N500 million and requiring three sureties of equal value.

Justice Maryann Anenih delivered the ruling on Thursday, reversing a prior decision that had denied his bail application on December 10, which was deemed premature since Bello was not in custody at that time.

Facing a money laundering trial involving N110 billion, Bello has pleaded not guilty to 16 charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

During the hearing, Bello’s counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, informed the court of a filed affidavit in response to the prosecution’s counter affidavit but sought to withdraw it to avoid contention, a request that was unopposed by the prosecution.

Daudu also indicated that discussions with the prosecution had led to an agreement for a swift trial and requested the court to reconsider the bail conditions, suggesting that the properties for sureties should be expanded to include locations throughout the Federal Capital Territory instead of being restricted to Maitama.

The prosecution counsel, Enitan SAN, confirmed the ongoing discussions with Daudu.

In alignment with the legal tradition advocating cooperation among bar members when it does not impede justice, we have opted to refrain from contentious debate, recognizing that regardless of the defense counsel’s diligence in pursuing bail or the prosecution’s vigorous opposition, your lordship retains the discretion to grant or deny the application.

Consequently, we entrust this matter to your lordship’s judgment. In her ruling, Justice Anenih confirmed that the charge against the 1st Defendant is bailable and subsequently granted bail in the amount of N500 million, requiring three sureties of equivalent value.

These sureties must be distinguished Nigerians possessing real estate in the areas of Maitama, Jabi, Utako, Apo, Guzape, Garki, and Asokoro. Additionally, the 1st Defendant is mandated to surrender his international passport and any other travel documents to the court, remaining at Kuje Correctional Centre until the bail conditions are fulfilled.