The Federal Capital Territory High Court has ordered the remand of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, at the Kuje Correctional Centre. This decision comes as Bello awaits a ruling on his bail application in an ongoing N110 billion money laundering case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Court Adjourns Case
The case has been adjourned to January 29, February 25, and February 27, 2025, for further hearings. Justice Maryann Anenih, presiding over the case, rejected Bello’s bail application, deeming it premature.
Bail Application Details
In the courtroom, Bello’s legal team, led by JB Daudu (SAN), argued for his release on bail, citing his former status as a two-term governor and assurances that he would neither interfere with witnesses nor abscond if granted bail. However, the prosecution, represented by Kemi Pinheiro, contested the application’s competence, arguing it was filed before Bello’s arraignment.
Judicial Reasoning
Justice Anenih explained, “The instant application for bail showed that it was filed on the 22nd of November. This shows that it was filed several days after the 1st defendant was taken into custody.” She referenced the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) which stipulates that bail applications should be filed after an individual has been arrested, detained, arraigned, or brought before the court. Bello had filed for bail on November 22, but was only taken into custody on November 26 and arraigned on November 27.
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Bail Granted to Co-Defendant
In contrast, the second defendant, Umar Oricha, was granted bail with stringent conditions. Oricha’s bail was set at N300 million with the requirement of two sureties who must possess property in Maitama, Abuja, valued at no less than the bail amount. These sureties must also provide original title documents, an affidavit of means, and deposit copies of their passports. Additionally, Oricha must deposit his travel documents and remain in prison custody until these conditions are met.
This development marks a significant moment in the legal proceedings against Bello, emphasizing the judicial system’s stance on ensuring the integrity of the trial process while addressing the rights of the accused.
