Again, EFCC to arraign Yahaya Bello on fresh money laundering charges Today

Former Kogi State governor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, is set to be arraigned today at the Federal High Court in Abuja on a 19-count charge of alleged money laundering.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will present the charges before Justice Emeka Nwite, where Bello is expected to take his plea.

Initially scheduled for January 27, 2025, the arraignment was expedited due to Bello’s availability at the EFCC headquarters. Both the former governor’s legal team and the prosecution have been served hearing notices to ensure a smooth court session.

This marks the second time Bello faces trial in recent weeks. On November 27, he was arraigned at the FCT High Court on a 16-count charge of breach of trust. He pleaded not guilty and sought bail to prepare his defense. Justice Maryann Anenih scheduled a ruling on the bail application for December 10, ordering Bello and his co-defendants to remain in EFCC custody until then.

Bello’s legal battle continues to draw public attention, with the EFCC intensifying efforts to prosecute high-profile corruption cases.