The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has urged the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Maitama to reject the bail application of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. The EFCC, represented by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Kemi Pinheiro, argued that Bello has a history of avoiding trial, referencing an unrelated corruption case pending before the Abuja Federal High Court.

Bello, alongside co-defendants Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, pleaded not guilty to a 16-count charge of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully acquired property. The EFCC accused Bello of embezzling N110 billion from Kogi State funds to acquire multiple properties in Abuja and Dubai, as well as transferring significant sums to foreign accounts.

Bello’s defense team, led by Joseph Daudu, SAN, argued that he remains innocent until proven guilty and should be granted bail to prepare his defense. Daudu emphasized that Bello voluntarily appeared in court in response to a summons and urged the court to dismiss EFCC’s claims about unrelated cases. He also noted that Bello was served the charges late on November 26, leaving insufficient time to prepare.

However, the EFCC countered that the bail application, filed before the defendants’ arraignment, was premature and invalid. Pinheiro stressed that bail should only be considered after the court assumes jurisdiction through arraignment.

Justice Maryann Anenih presided over the session, where EFCC revealed its readiness to begin the trial with witnesses present in court. The defense opposed this, arguing for more preparation time. The court adjourned further proceedings to deliberate on the bail application and commence the trial. Meanwhile, Bello and his co-defendants maintain their innocence as the trial unfolds.