The former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has arrived at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja for his arraignment on charges of alleged misappropriation of ₦110 billion.
Bello, dressed in a white kaftan and blue cap, was escorted by officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to face Justice Maryanne Anenih. The EFCC is prosecuting Bello alongside two other defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, on a 16-count charge related to financial misconduct.
Case Background
The EFCC alleges that Bello and his co-defendants engaged in fraudulent activities involving public funds during his tenure.
- Co-Defendants’ Status: Oricha and Hudu have been granted administrative bail, while Bello’s appearance follows a summons issued by the court.
- Charges Filed: The 16-count charge is part of the commission’s broader effort to address corruption at high levels of government.
At the previous hearing on November 14, the EFCC requested additional time for Bello to honor the court summons, which was set to expire within a 30-day window.
Proceedings
The court will now hear the charges against Bello and his co-defendants as the case unfolds. Updates on the trial are expected to provide more clarity on the allegations and evidence presented.
