Yahaya Bello to Remain in EFCC Custody Until Dec 10 Decision
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured a December 10, 2024, date for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court to rule on the bail applications of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and two co-defendants.
Justice Maryann Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court adjourned the hearing and set this date to deliver this judgement.
The ruling followed arguments between Bello’s lawyer, Joseph Bodunde Daudu (SAN), and the EFCC’s lead counsel, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN).
The EFCC has accused Bello and his co-defendants of involvement in a N110 billion fraud.
The case includes 16 charges filed against the defendants.
On Wednesday, Bello appeared in court alongside his co-accused, Umar Shoaib Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu.
All three defendants pleaded not guilty to the allegations.
Bello denied all charges as they were read out in court.
Daudu, representing Bello, filed for bail immediately after the plea was taken.
He argued that Bello’s compliance with the court summons showed respect for the legal process.
Daudu stated that his client, presumed innocent, should be granted temporary freedom to prepare his defense.
The EFCC opposed the bail application.
Pinheiro, representing the EFCC, highlighted that a previous bail motion for Bello had expired in October.
He also noted Bello’s alleged failure to appear in a separate case.
Pinheiro argued that the trial should begin immediately as the EFCC was ready to call its first witness.
In response, Daudu clarified that a new bail application had been submitted on November 22.
He said the application was supported by a detailed affidavit and legal arguments.
Daudu dismissed the EFCC’s objections as irrelevant to the current case.
Justice Anenih took a recess to deliberate on the submissions.
Upon resumption, the EFCC raised concerns about granting bail to Oricha.
The EFCC argued that Oricha, a serving Director-General in Kogi State, might commit similar offenses if released.
Daudu countered this, stating the EFCC had no evidence to support its claims.
He described the EFCC’s argument as speculative and lacking merit.
Justice Anenih concluded by deferring her ruling on the bail application to December 10.
She ordered that Bello and his co-defendants remain in EFCC custody until the ruling is delivered.
This high-profile case has captured public attention.
It highlights the EFCC’s commitment to prosecuting corruption cases involving prominent individuals.
The judiciary’s handling of the matter remains under close scrutiny.
