Rita Odafe
EFCC Opposes Bail for Ex-Governor
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has requested that a High Court in Maitama refuse bail to ex-Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.
Represented by a legal team led by Mr. Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, the EFCC claimed Bello has failed to attend his trial related to another corruption case pending at the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court.
The Commission countered a bail request submitted by Bello’s attorneys, led by former Nigerian Bar Association President, Mr. Joseph Daudu, SAN. After pleading not guilty to a 16-count indictment, Daudu highlighted a bail application filed by Bello on November 22.
Bello’s defense team outlined six reasons supporting the bail request, emphasizing his legal presumption of innocence. They argued that allowing bail would facilitate his preparation for the defense against the charges.
According to Bello’s attorney, the ex-governor received a copy of the charges only shortly before the court session on November 26, and he appeared in court as per a summons issued to him.
The defense emphasized that the EFCC’s claims should not influence the court as they pertained to unrelated matters.
The prosecution revealed that some witnesses were ready to testify, requesting permission for the EFCC to initiate its case, which the defense opposed.
Additionally, the EFCC asserted that Bello’s bail request was invalid as it was made prior to the defendants’ arraignment. “Jurisdiction is only established once defendants are arraigned,” argued EFCC’s counsel, Pinheiro, SAN, asserting the application was untimely and contradictory to legal definitions of bail.
Bello, along with his co-defendants, faces allegations connected to a N110 billion fraud case. The charges include conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and handling of unlawfully acquired property.
Specifically, it is alleged that Bello misappropriated state funds to purchase high-value properties in Abuja and Dubai, including notable amounts for properties in premier locations.
They are also accused of transferring significant sums to a bank in the USA and possessing illegally obtained assets totaling millions. The defendants maintained their innocence when the charges were read before trial Justice Maryann Anenih.
