Yahaya Bello, former Governor of Kogi State, has gone home, released from Kuje Custodial Centre on Friday after meeting the bail conditions set by the trial High Court in Maitama, Abuja.
Judge Maryann Anenih granted Bello bail on Thursday in the sum of ₦500 million.
The bail conditions included providing three sureties, each owning property in high-value areas of Abuja, such as Maitama, Guzape, or Asokoro.
Bello was also required to surrender his passport, which restricts him from international travel without court permission.
Adamu Duza, the spokesman of the Nigerian Correctional Service spokesperson, confirmed, “Yahaya Bello has been released after meeting the bail conditions. He was released this evening (Friday).”
Bello was charged with alleged ₦110 billion fraud by the Nigerian anti-graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He was said to have mismanaged and/or embezzled the funds and other abuse of office allegations.
The former governor, fondly known by his supporters as the “White Lion“, had evaded arrest for months. His eventual arrest, arraignment, and today’s release has ended weeks of drama between him and EFCC.
The court adjourned the matter to January 29, February 25, and February 27, 2025, for further hearings.
Bello pleaded not guilty in court and will defend himself along with two other defendants who were members of his government.
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