The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, on corruption charges involving over ₦80.2 billion. The bail was set at ₦500 million, with strict conditions outlined by the presiding judge, Justice Emeka Nwite.
Bello, who served as the governor of Kogi State from January 2016 to January 2024, was arraigned on Friday, December 13, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The anti-graft agency charged him with 19 counts of criminal breach of trust and misappropriation of public funds during his tenure as governor.
The charges, filed under case number FHC/ABJ/CR/98/2024, allege that Bello diverted over ₦80.2 billion of public funds intended to develop Kogi State. According to the EFCC, the funds were laundered through various proxies and used to acquire high-value properties both in Nigeria and overseas.
During his court appearance, Bello pleaded not guilty to all 19 charges, maintaining that the allegations were baseless and politically motivated.
Justice Emeka Nwite, after hearing arguments from both the prosecution and defence, granted bail to Bello with stringent conditions. Bello must provide two sureties who each guarantee the ₦500 million bail amount, and the sureties must own properties within the court’s jurisdiction. These properties are to be verified by a Deputy Registrar of the Federal High Court.
In addition, the court ordered Bello to surrender his international passport and remain in custody at Kuje prison, Abuja, until all bail conditions are met.
The case has attracted widespread attention, with varying reactions from different quarters. Bello’s supporters claim the charges attempt to tarnish his political legacy, while critics argue that the allegations reflect deep-seated corruption that must be addressed.
Yahaya Bello first rose to prominence in Nigerian politics when he became the youngest governor in Kogi State’s history at the age of 40. However, his administration faced multiple controversies, with allegations of mismanagement overshadowing his achievements in infrastructure and youth empowerment.
The EFCC has described the case as part of its broader mission to combat corruption and recover stolen public funds. Meanwhile, Bello’s legal team has expressed confidence in proving his innocence, vowing to contest the charges vigorously in court.
