Overview of the Case
On November 14, 2024, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) granted bail to two co-defendants involved in a major fraud case alongside former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello. This development was announced during a session at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama. The case centers on a 16-count indictment for alleged misappropriation of ₦110.4 billion in state funds.
Court Session Details
During the court session, Yahaya Bello and his legal team were absent, which prompted EFCC’s counsel, Jamiu Agoro, to highlight difficulties in formally serving Bello with the charges. Two of Bello’s alleged accomplices, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, were granted bail ahead of their upcoming arraignment.
Agoro emphasized that a public summons issued to ensure Bello’s appearance remains in effect until November 17. He requested an adjournment to allow more time for Bello to respond, with a plan to post notices at Bello’s last known address if necessary.
EFCC’s Next Steps
The EFCC’s legal team requested a court order to:
- Extend the time allowed for Bello to respond to the summons if he does not appear within the current 30-day period.
- Authorize posting a hearing notice at Bello’s last known address, No. 9 Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja.
Representatives for the co-defendants, Aliyu Saiki, SAN, and Z. E. Abbas, acknowledged the bail granted by the EFCC and agreed to the proposed adjournment. Justice Maryann Anenih, presiding over the case, accepted the EFCC’s requests and postponed further proceedings until November 27. She also ordered that a notice be displayed at Bello’s residence and a visible location within the court complex.
Allegations Against Bello and Co-Defendants
The EFCC’s indictment outlines serious allegations of financial misconduct, including conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and unlawful possession of assets. Among the properties allegedly acquired using misappropriated state funds are:
- No. 35 Danube Street, Maitama, Abuja (₦950 million)
- No. 1160 Cadastral Zone C03, Gwarimpa II District, Abuja (₦100 million)
- No. 2 Justice Chukwudifu Oputa Street, Asokoro, Abuja (₦920 million)
Additional properties include:
- Block D, Manzini Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja (₦170 million)
- A hotel apartment in Burj Khalifa, Dubai (5,698,888 dirhams)
- Block 18, Gwelo Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja (₦60 million)
- No. 9 Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja (₦310.4 million)
The EFCC also alleges that Bello and his associates transferred substantial funds to foreign accounts, including $570,330 and $556,265 to TD Bank, USA. Additional illicit funds of ₦677.8 million are said to be linked to Bespoque Business Solution Limited.
The case continues to attract significant attention as the court prepares for further hearings later this month.
News Editor