The arraignment of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, on allegations of laundering N80.2 billion was delayed on Friday at the Federal High Court, Abuja, due to the absence of his legal team.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had filed a 19-count charge against Bello, accusing him of money laundering and mismanagement of public funds. At the hearing, EFCC counsel Kemi Phinero requested that the charges be read to the defendant so his plea could be taken.
However, Bello informed the court that he had only been notified of the arraignment late on November 28, leaving insufficient time to contact his lawyers.
Justice Emeka Nwite ruled that the presence of Bello’s counsel was essential to ensure a fair trial, adjourning the case to December 10. Until then, Bello will remain in EFCC custody, as his bail application hearing has also been scheduled for the same date.
Previous Charges and Allegations
Bello, who served as governor from 2016 to 2023, had earlier pleaded “not guilty” to a separate 16-count charge filed by the EFCC. These charges included allegations of embezzlement, abuse of office, and mismanagement of state funds.
In November, the EFCC leveled additional accusations, claiming Bello was involved in fraud amounting to N110 billion. The fresh charges, dated September 25, expand upon the initial allegations, which also implicated Bello’s nephew, Ali Bello, as well as Dauda Suliman and Abdulsalam Hudu.
The case represents one of the largest anti-corruption prosecutions involving a former state governor, with the EFCC intensifying efforts to hold public officials accountable for alleged financial crimes.
