The former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has entered a plea of not guilty to a 16-count charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The charges were filed before Justice Maryann Anenih at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Maitama, Abuja, on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. Bello appeared alongside two co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu.
The charges, registered under case number CR/7781, encompass allegations of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and the possession of assets unlawfully acquired using public funds. The EFCC claims that Bello and his co-accused orchestrated a scheme to misappropriate funds from the Kogi State treasury, resulting in a massive fraud totaling N110.4 billion.
According to court documents, the funds were allegedly used to acquire several high-value properties, including:
No. 35 Danube Street, Maitama District, Abuja, valued at N950 million.
No. 1160 Cadastral Zone C03, Gwarimpa II District, Abuja, purchased for N100 million.
No. 2 Justice Chukwudifu Oputa Street, Asokoro, Abuja, acquired for N920 million.
Block D Manzini Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, valued at N170 million.
A luxury hotel apartment in Burj Khalifa, Dubai, worth 5,698,888 dirhams (approximately $1.55 million).
Block 18 Gwelo Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, acquired for N60 million.
No. 9 Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, purchased for N310.4 million.
Additionally, the EFCC accused the former governor of transferring substantial sums—$570,330 and $556,265—to TD Bank in the United States. Furthermore, Bello and his co-defendants are alleged to have unlawfully obtained N677.8 million from Bespoque Business Solution Limited.
During the court session, the defendants were arraigned on charges linking them to the fraudulent acquisition of these assets, all reportedly purchased with funds misappropriated during Bello’s tenure as governor.
Yahaya Bello, speaking through his legal team, vehemently denied the allegations, maintaining his innocence. His defense attorneys argued that the charges were baseless and politically motivated. However, the EFCC presented evidence, including property documents, financial transaction records, and testimonies from witnesses, to substantiate their claims.
Justice Maryann Anenih, presiding over the case, acknowledged the gravity of the charges and adjourned proceedings for further deliberation. The judge stated that the court would ensure a fair trial, balancing the rights of the accused with the need for accountability in public office.
The next hearing is scheduled for November 30, 2024. During this hearing, the court is expected to address preliminary objections from the defense while the EFCC outlines its case in greater detail.
