Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, was released from the Kuje Custodial Centre after fulfilling the requirements of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja regarding bail.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has charged Bello, Shuaibu Oricha, and Abdulsalam Hudu with 16 counts, including conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and unauthorised possession of property. To the charges, each defendant entered a not-guilty plea.
Bail Conditions:
Justice MaryAnne Anenih gave Bello ₦500 million in bail on Thursday. Among the conditions were:
- Providing three sureties, each of whom owns real estate in a few high-value neighbourhoods of Abuja, like Asokoro, Guzape, or Maitama.
- His international passport was turned in.
- Travel outside Nigeria is restricted without prior authorisation.
Bello’s release was verified on Friday night by Adamu Duza, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service, FCT Command, who said, “Yahaya Bello has been released after meeting the bail conditions.” He was set free this Friday evening.
To continue the case’s proceedings, the court has set additional hearing dates for January 29, February 25, and February 27, 2025.
