By Ayomide Otitoju
The immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has been released from the Kuje Custodial Centre following his compliance with the bail conditions set by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja.
Adamu Duza, spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), FCT Command, confirmed the development in a brief statement on Friday.
“Yahaya Bello has been released after meeting the bail conditions. The Controller of NCoS FCT, Ajibogun Olatubosun, was present to ensure his smooth release and compliance with all protocols,” Duza stated.
Bail Conditions and Fraud Allegations
Justice MaryAnne Anenih had granted bail to Bello on Thursday, setting a bond of ₦500 million. The bail conditions required the former governor to provide three sureties, each owning property in premium areas of Abuja, such as Maitama, Guzape, or Asokoro. Additionally, Bello was ordered to surrender his passport and seek court permission for any travel outside Nigeria.
Bello faces 16 counts of fraud charges involving the alleged misappropriation of ₦110 billion from Kogi State government funds, as brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Legal Proceedings and Timeline
Justice Anenih had initially declined Bello’s bail application on December 10, citing premature filing of the request. The case was adjourned to January 29 and 30, as well as February 25 and 27, for trial.
During Thursday’s hearing, Bello’s counsel, Joseph Daudu, sought to withdraw a further affidavit previously filed in response to the EFCC’s counter affidavit. The judge accepted the withdrawal and reaffirmed the January 29, 2025, date for the commencement of trial.
Separately, Bello is also facing charges of money laundering involving ₦80 billion at the Federal High Court in Abuja. He has similarly been granted bail in that case, with trial dates scheduled for next year.
Bello’s release marks a pivotal moment in the legal battles surrounding his tenure as governor, as the courts prepare to adjudicate the high-profile cases in 2025.
