The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned proceedings in the trial of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello, to June 26 and 27, and July 3 and 4, 2025, for ruling on an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) seeking to re-examine a key witness.
Presiding judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, adjourned the matter on Friday, May 9, 2025, following submissions by EFCC counsel requesting permission to re-examine the Commission’s third witness, Nicholas Ojehomon, regarding school fees allegedly paid for Bello’s children at the American International School, Abuja (AISA).
Bello is standing trial on a 19-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust and money laundering involving N80.2 billion. The charges were brought under Section 18(a) and are punishable under Section 15(3) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended).
The EFCC’s application stems from issues raised during the cross-examination of Ojehomon, particularly concerning Exhibit 19, a document related to the payment of school fees. Prosecution counsel, Olukayode Eniola, SAN, argued that the re-examination was necessary to clarify matters that emerged for the first time during cross-examination.
“I am not examining the witness afresh but seeking to re-examine him on areas deliberately left untouched by the defence,” Eniola stated. He further argued that Exhibit 19, introduced by the defence, had been altered and that the prosecution had a right to address relevant portions of the document.
Citing Section 32 of the Constitution and Section 215(3) of the Evidence Act, Eniola maintained that the principle of fair hearing entitled the prosecution to an equal opportunity to clarify the issues. He referenced multiple legal authorities, including Ameobi vs. Ameobi and Haruna vs. Modibbo, asserting that denial of the re-examination could amount to a miscarriage of justice.
Defence counsel, J.B. Daudu, SAN, objected to the application, prompting further arguments from the prosecution in support of their request.
Justice Nwite adjourned the matter for ruling on the EFCC’s application and continuation of the trial.
