Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello appeared today at the Federal High Court in Abuja to face serious allegations of fraud and money laundering totaling N80.2 billion. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed an 18-count charge against him, which includes conspiracy to commit a criminal breach of trust.
This high-profile case has drawn significant public attention, particularly due to the scale of the alleged fraud, which is said to involve funds misappropriated during Bello's tenure as governor. The EFCC claims that Bello and others conspired in February 2016 to convert approximately N80,246,470,088.88 through unlawful activities, violating the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act of 2011.
During the court proceedings, which were presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, Bello pleaded not guilty to all charges. His legal team requested additional time to prepare for the arraignment, citing the complexity of the case and the need for thorough representation. Justice Nwite subsequently adjourned the trial to allow for these preparations.
Bello's appearance in court follows a tumultuous period marked by his evasion of arrest and multiple absences from previous court sessions. The EFCC had previously declared him wanted and secured a bench warrant due to his non-compliance with court orders. His recent arrest on November 26, 2024, at the EFCC headquarters marked a significant turning point in the commission's ongoing efforts to bring him to justice.
In a statement released by his media office prior to his court appearance, Bello expressed his commitment to upholding the rule of law and asserted that he has nothing to hide. "I am here to clear my name," he stated. "I have always respected due process and will continue to cooperate with the legal system."