Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has secured bail in the sum of N500 million after pleading with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama to amend conditions requiring sureties to provide properties in Maitama exclusively.
During the hearing on Thursday, December 19, 2024, Bello’s counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN), argued that obtaining Certificates of Occupancy and other title documents for Maitama properties is challenging due to the area’s peculiarities. He urged the court to consider alternative highbrow districts, such as Asokoro, Wuse 2, and Guzape.
“My Lord, most potential sureties are reluctant to part with original title documents. Additionally, many buildings in Maitama are corporate establishments like Transcorp Hilton and NCC,” Daudu said.
The prosecution, led by Olukayode Eniton (SAN), did not oppose the bail application. Eniton confirmed that discussions with the defense team ensured Bello’s commitment to stand trial.
Justice Maryann Anenih granted bail to Bello under specific conditions, including three sureties with properties in Maitama, Jabi, Utako, Apo, Guzape, Garki, or Asokoro. Bello must also deposit his travel documents with the court registrar and remain in custody until the bail terms are met.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Bello alongside Umar Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu on a 16-count charge of criminal breach of trust and laundering N110.4 billion.
The court also varied the bail conditions for Oricha and Hudu, reducing their bail sum from N300 million to N200 million and allowing properties of equivalent value within the court’s jurisdiction to serve as sureties.
Justice Anenih adjourned the substantive hearing of the case to January 29, 2025.
