The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has rejected a bail application filed by Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, in a N110.4 billion fraud case. The court ruled that the application was premature and intended to preempt the court.
Bello’s counsel, Jacob Daudu (SAN), had urged the court to consider the application, arguing that his client would not interfere with witnesses or jump bail. Daudu stated, “The first defendant became aware of the instant charge through the public summons. He is a responsible individual and will abide by the conditions set by the court.”
However, EFCC counsel, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), countered that the application was grossly incompetent, as it was filed before the arraignment, contrary to the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. Pinheiro emphasized that the timing rendered the application invalid, urging the court to dismiss it.
In a separate ruling, the court granted bail to the second defendant, Umar Oricha, in the sum of N300 million with two sureties. The court specified that the sureties must own properties in Abuja’s Maitama district valued at no less than the bail bond and must submit the original title documents to the court.
Justice Maryann Anenih further directed that the sureties must depose to affidavits of means and submit copies of their international passports to the court. Oricha is to deposit his travel documents with the court and remain in custody until all bail conditions are met.
