By Ayomide Otitoju
The immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, alongside two co-defendants, pleaded not guilty to 16-count charges brought against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges, ranging from alleged fraud to criminal misappropriation, were read out before Justice Maryann Anenih at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja.
Bello, the first defendant in the case, maintained his innocence as his legal team, led by Joseph Daudu (SAN), sought bail for their client. Daudu argued that the November 22 motion for bail was properly filed and supported by an affidavit and written address. He pointed to Bello’s voluntary appearance in court as a demonstration of respect for the judicial process.
“Exhibit A, the public summons, is vital. The first defendant’s presence here today underscores his commitment to the rule of law,” Daudu told the court.
However, EFCC counsel Kemi Pinheiro (SAN) opposed the bail application, arguing that an earlier bail application had expired in October. Pinheiro also urged the court to consider the defendant’s refusal to appear in an ongoing case at the Federal High Court as evidence of disregard for the legal process.
The EFCC, prepared to begin trial immediately, announced its readiness to call its first witness. However, Daudu requested more time to prepare, citing the late service of the charges on his client on the night of November 26.
Daudu further emphasized that under Nigerian law, defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. “It is within his rights to enjoy liberty while preparing for trial,” he stated, urging the court not to allow issues from another case to influence the proceedings.
Pinheiro countered this argument, raising a preliminary objection based on the competence of the application, its factual content, and judicial principles.
Meanwhile, the two co-defendants, Umar Shoaib Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, who had previously been granted administrative bail by the EFCC, appeared in court alongside Bello for the first time.
Justice Maryann Anenih adjourned the matter, with a ruling on the bail application expected at the next sitting. As the trial begins, the case continues to draw attention to the legal battles surrounding high-profile political figures in Nigeria.
