Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, is set to appear before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday, June 13. He faces 19 counts of money laundering charges, totaling N80.2 billion, along with co-defendants Ali Bello, Dauda Suleiman, and Abdulsalam Hudu. These charges have been brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In April, Bello evaded arrest by EFCC officers, citing threats to his life as the reason for his disappearance. However, during the last court session, he agreed to face the charges. His lead counsel, Abdulwahab Mohammed, made this assurance to Justice Emeka Nwite on May 10, following the court’s rejection of a request to postpone the trial.
Bello’s lawyer argued that his client is not afraid of the charges but is deeply concerned about his safety while in EFCC custody in Abuja. He claimed that continuous threats to Bello’s life had forced him into hiding. The lawyer stated that their decision to comply with the court was influenced by Justice Nwite’s assurance that the EFCC would adhere to legal standards.
Justice Nwite noted that Bello is neither the first nor the last former governor to be summoned by the EFCC, reminding all parties that the charges are still allegations, and the law presumes innocence until proven guilty. He advised Bello’s lawyer to ensure his client respects the legal process. The lawyer thanked the judge for his counsel and confirmed that, with assurances of safety, Bello would attend court. He requested a four-week period to arrange his client’s appearance.
