Ex-Kogi Gov Yahaya Bello to remain in Kuje prison until January 29

The Federal Capital Territory High Court has ordered the remand of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, at the Kuje Correctional Centre until January 29, 2025.

The court also adjourned his trial to February 25, 2025.

This decision follows the rejection of Bello’s bail application due to procedural irregularities. Justice Maryanne Anenih ruled that the application was prematurely filed, as it was submitted before Bello appeared in court or was taken into custody.

Bello, alongside two co-defendants, is facing a 16-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) under case number CR/7781. The charges include conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and unlawful possession of property, with allegations of misappropriating N110 billion in state funds.

The EFCC claims that the misappropriated funds were used to acquire properties, including:

No. 35 Danube Street, Maitama District, Abuja (valued at N950 million).

No. 1160 Cadastral Zone C03, Gwarimpa II District, Abuja (valued at N100 million).

No. 2 Justice Chukwudifu Oputa Street, Asokoro, Abuja (valued at N920 million).

Bello, who has been in EFCC custody since November 25, maintains his innocence. The case continues to attract significant public attention due to its implications for governance and accountability in Nigeria.