Yahaya Bello Bail Case
The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has taken decisive action in the ongoing Yahaya Bello bail case, remanding the former Kogi State Governor in Kuje Correctional Centre.
Justice Maryann Anenih also adjourned hearings in the N110 billion money laundering case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to January 29, 30, and February 25, 27, in 2025.
In a critical ruling delivered on Tuesday, the court dismissed Bello’s premature bail application, highlighting its incompetence since it was filed before his arraignment or detention. 
Justice Anenih noted that the application, dated November 22, did not meet the legal requirements outlined under Nigeria’s Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).
EFCC Charges and Pending Bail Decision
Bello faces allegations of laundering N110 billion alongside two co-defendants. His counsel, Joseph Daudu (SAN), argued vigorously for his release on bail, emphasizing his commitment to cooperate with judicial proceedings.
Daudu asserted, “He is a two-term governor of Kogi State and will not interfere with witnesses or abscond if granted bail.”
However, the EFCC’s prosecution counsel, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), opposed the motion, deeming it procedurally flawed. Pinheiro emphasized that bail should be requested only after arraignment, citing established legal precedents to support the objection.
Co-Defendants Secure Bail
While the court postponed its decision on Bello’s bail, the two co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, received conditional bail. Each was granted bail of N300 million, with stringent conditions, including the requirement for sureties owning property in Abuja’s Maitama District and depositing their travel documents with the court registrar.
Justice Anenih clarified, “Each surety may only stand for one defendant, ensuring accountability while bail conditions are met.” Until these terms are fulfilled, the defendants remain in custody at Kuje Correctional Centre.
Legal Implications and Next Steps
The Yahaya Bello bail case has become a high-profile legal matter, spotlighting procedural intricacies in Nigeria’s judicial system. With hearings scheduled for early 2025, the court’s eventual decision will shape the trajectory of this significant fraud trial.
As proceedings unfold, the question lingers: will Bello and his legal team navigate these challenges to secure bail, or will the EFCC’s arguments carry the day?
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