Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello appealed to the FCT High Court to reconsider bail conditions involving Maitama property. His lawyer argued that obtaining title documents in the area is challenging. The court granted him bail with conditions, including N500 million and three sureties, while his trial continues.
Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has requested the FCT High Court in Maitama, Abuja, to reconsider the requirement of a Maitama property as part of his bail conditions. Bello's lawyer, J.B. Daudu SAN, argued that obtaining title documents in the area is difficult due to numerous corporate properties, urging the court to allow other high-profile locations like Asokoro, Wuse 2, and Guzape.
The hearing, held on December 19, 2024, focused on Bello’s bail application, with the prosecution not opposing it. Daudu emphasized the necessity for Bello's unrestricted access to prepare for the trial, asserting that the charges are bailable and documents crucial for the case are only accessible by the defendant. Both Daudu and the prosecution agreed that the defendant would stand trial, leaving the decision on the bail terms to the court.
Justice Maryann Anenih granted Bello bail at N500 million with three sureties of similar value. The sureties must own properties in select Abuja districts. Bello was also ordered to submit his passport to the court and remain in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service until bail conditions are met.
Alongside Bello, co-defendants Umar Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu had their bail sums reduced from N300 million to N200 million, with similar property-based conditions. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting the trio on charges of criminal breach of trust and money laundering involving N110.4 billion. The hearing is adjourned until January 29, 2024.
