Confirmation of Release
Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, has returned home following his release from Kuje Custodial Centre. The release came after he met the bail conditions imposed by the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja. This was verified by Adamu Duza, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service, FCT Command, on Friday.
Details of Bail
Bello’s release was facilitated after Justice MaryAnne Anenih granted him bail in the amount of N500 million. The requirements for his bail included securing three sureties, each with property in upscale areas of Abuja like Maitama, Guzape, or Asokoro. Additionally, he was mandated to surrender his passport and was prohibited from traveling outside Nigeria without court approval.
Legal Challenges
Bello, along with two others, is currently facing charges related to the alleged misappropriation of N110 billion from Kogi State’s funds. He has entered a plea of not guilty to the 16-count charges initiated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
READ ALSO: JUST IN: Yahaya Bello Granted ₦500 Million Bail in ₦80 Billion Fraud Case
Previous Court Decisions
Initially, on December 10, Justice Anenih rejected Bello’s bail application, deeming it premature. Consequently, she scheduled the start of the trial for January 29, 2025. Meanwhile, another judicial proceeding at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Bello faces an N80 billion money laundering charge, had previously granted him bail and set a date for the trial to begin.
Release Oversight
The release procedure was overseen by Ajibogun Olatubosun, the Controller of the Nigerian Correctional Service for the FCT, ensuring all protocols were adhered to during Bello’s departure from custody.
