Bail Conditions Set by FCT High Court
Yahaya Bello, the former Kogi State Governor, was released from custody after meeting bail conditions set by the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama. Justice MaryAnne Anenih required a ₦500 million bond and three sureties as part of the bail terms. Each surety was mandated to own property in premium areas like Maitama, Guzape, or Asokoro in Abuja.
Additionally, Bello was ordered to surrender his passport and was restricted from traveling outside Nigeria without prior court approval. The stringent conditions were aimed at ensuring his presence for trial while addressing concerns about flight risks.
Accusations of Financial Misconduct
Bello is facing a 16-count charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accusing him of diverting ₦110 billion during his tenure as governor. The charges detail alleged mismanagement and embezzlement of state funds intended for developmental projects.
In a related case, Bello also faces separate money laundering charges amounting to ₦80 billion at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The former governor has pleaded not guilty to all charges, maintaining his innocence amid growing scrutiny of his financial activities during his administration.
Bail Conditions Met and Release Confirmed
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) confirmed Bello’s release from the Kuje Custodial Centre on Friday after all bail conditions were met. Adamu Duza, the spokesperson for the NCoS FCT Command, stated that the release was supervised by Controller Ajibogun Olatubosun to ensure protocol compliance.
Bello’s release marks a significant step as he prepares for his trial, set to commence on January 29, 2025. Legal experts have described the bail decision as a critical moment in the high-profile corruption case.
EFCC’s Crackdown and Past Evasion
The EFCC had initially encountered challenges in apprehending Bello. In April, he reportedly evaded arrest with assistance from allies, including the current Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo. Despite these setbacks, the EFCC remains committed to prosecuting the case, describing it as a pivotal move in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.
Public Reactions and Next Steps
The high-profile nature of Bello’s case has drawn significant public and media attention. While supporters claim political motives behind the charges, critics argue that the case represents a necessary step toward accountability. With the trial date approaching, observers anticipate intense legal battles and potential implications for Nigeria’s broader anti-corruption efforts.
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