Alleged N110.4 Billion Money Laundering: Yahaya Bello Appeals for Leniency in Bail Conditions

Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello has urged Justice Maryann Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Maitama, Abuja, to adjust his bail conditions by sparing him from using a landed property in Maitama as collateral.

Bello, represented by his counsel, J.B. Daudu SAN, made the plea on Thursday, December 19, 2024, during a hearing of his bail application. He argued that obtaining Certificates of Occupancy and title documents for properties in Maitama is particularly challenging due to the area’s unique nature.

Defense’s Argument

Daudu emphasized:

“My Lord, most people willing to stand as sureties are reluctant to part with their original title documents. Furthermore, many Maitama properties are corporate establishments like Transcorp Hilton and NCC. We humbly request the court to consider other highbrow areas such as Asokoro, Wuse 2, and Guzape.”

The defense also highlighted the need for Bello’s unrestricted access to prepare for his trial, citing the bailability of the charges and procedural delays in granting bail.

Prosecution’s Position

Counsel for the prosecution, Olukayode Enitan SAN, did not oppose the bail application. He confirmed discussions with the defense team and expressed confidence in Bello’s commitment to stand trial, leaving the terms of bail to the court’s discretion.

Court Ruling

Justice Anenih granted Bello bail with the following conditions:

• Bail Sum: N500 million with three sureties in like sum.
• Surety Properties: Located in Maitama, Jabi, Utako, Apo, Guzape, Garki, or Asokoro.
• Travel Restrictions: Bello must deposit his passport and other travel documents with the court registrar.
• Detention: He will remain in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Kuje, until the bail conditions are met.

Co-Defendants’ Bail Adjustments

The court also revised the bail conditions for Bello’s co-defendants, Umar Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, reducing their bail sum from N300 million to N200 million. They were allowed to secure landed properties within the court’s jurisdiction equivalent to the bail value.

Background of the Case

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Bello, Oricha, and Hudu on a 16-count charge of criminal breach of trust and money laundering amounting to N110.4 billion.

Next Steps

The substantive suit is adjourned for hearing on January 29, 2025.