The Digest:
A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello permission to travel to Saudi Arabia to perform the 2026 lesser Hajj during Ramadan. Justice Emeka Nwite approved the temporary release of Bello’s passport, which has been in court custody, for a period of 10 days beginning March 13, 2026. Bello’s lead counsel, Joseph Daudu (SAN), argued that the former governor had not undertaken the pilgrimage in over eight years and wished to pray for divine intervention in his ongoing trial. The EFCC’s lead prosecutor, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), did not oppose the request but insisted that scheduled trial dates must be honored. Bello is facing charges of alleged money laundering involving N80.2 billion.
Key Points:
- The ruling balances the defendant’s religious obligations with the judicial process in a high-profile corruption case.
- Granting travel approval reflects judicial discretion in allowing temporary relief during ongoing trials.
- The prosecution’s non-opposition suggests strategic accommodation while safeguarding trial continuity.
- The request highlights how defendants in prominent cases may seek spiritual recourse amid legal battles.
- The trial continues with testimony from a subpoenaed bank official detailing cash flows linked to the allegations.
While Bello prepares for his pilgrimage, the court maintains oversight to ensure his return and the resumption of proceedings in the N80.2 billion corruption case.
Sources: PM News, Vanguard
