Yahaya Bello, a former governor of Kogi State, has been remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre. This follows his bail application, which Justice Maryann Anenih denied. The case will continue on January 29, February 25, and February 27, 2025, to continue the hearing.
Justice Anenih said Bello’s bail request was “filed prematurely.” The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged him with money laundering involving ₦110 billion.
Bello’s lawyer, JB Daudu (SAN), argued that there was no chance he would jump bail or interfere with witnesses. He urged the court to grant bail based on Bello’s status as a former governor.
However, prosecution counsel Kemi Pinheiro claimed the bail application was “grossly incompetent” as it was filed before arraignment.
The judge noted that Bello’s bail application was submitted on November 22, he was taken into custody on November 26, and he was arraigned on November 27.
The second defendant, Umar Oricha, received bail set at ₦300 million. He must provide two sureties with property in Maitama valued at the bond amount and deposit original title documents in court. Oricha must deposit travel documents and remain in custody until bail conditions are met.
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