The Traffic

From Governor’s Mansion to Kuje: Yahaya Bello Remains in Prison Despite N500M Bail Offer

By Achimi Muktar

In a dramatic twist of fate, former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has been remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre despite securing a N500 million bail. Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, granted the embattled politician bail but ordered his continued detention until all bail conditions are fulfilled.

Bello faces a staggering 19-count charge, including allegations of money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds totaling over N80.2 billion, brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

During the bail ruling, Justice Nwite emphasized that the decision was made at the court's discretion. The bail terms include two sureties with landed property within Abuja's jurisdiction, sworn affidavits of means, verified documents, and the surrender of Bello's international passport.

“The defendant shall be released upon the perfection of the bail,” Justice Nwite declared, before adjourning the trial to February 2025.

A Governor’s Defense

Bello pleaded "not guilty" to all charges. His defense team, led by J.B. Daudu, painted a picture of a compliant, non-flight-risk former governor who had only left the country twice during his eight years in office. Daudu also apologized for what he termed the “misunderstanding” surrounding Bello’s previous court absences, attributing them to legal jurisdiction challenges that took the matter to the Supreme Court.

“My Lord, he acted in good faith and holds this court in high esteem,” Daudu argued, pleading for leniency and vowing that Bello would attend all trial proceedings.

The prosecution, represented by Kemi Pinheiro, chose not to oppose the bail request, despite earlier filing a counter-motion.

A Web of Legal Battles

This isn’t Bello’s only legal hurdle. In a separate case before Justice MaryAnne Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Maitama, he faces additional charges of fraud amounting to N110.4 billion. Justice Anenih had also remanded Bello in Kuje Prison after rejecting his bail application due to procedural errors.

What Lies Ahead?

The former governor’s legal woes have sparked widespread debate, with critics questioning the scale of alleged corruption and its impact on governance. As the trial dates approach, the nation watches closely to see how this high-stakes case unfolds.

For now, Yahaya Bello’s once-powerful status has been reduced to navigating life behind the walls of Kuje Correctional Centre.