JUST IN: Former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello Remanded in EFCC Custody Until December 10

The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following his arraignment on Wednesday. The court adjourned his trial to December 10 for the hearing of his bail application.

Bello, who served as governor from 2016 to 2023, is facing a 16-count charge brought against him by the EFCC. The charges include allegations of money laundering, mismanagement of state funds, and abuse of office. During his arraignment, Bello pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The courtroom descended into chaos earlier on Wednesday when a crowd of Bello’s supporters stormed the premises. The former governor instructed his followers and aides to vacate the courtroom to restore order before proceedings continued. Justice Maryann Anenih subsequently took his plea alongside those of two co-defendants.

The EFCC strongly opposed Bello’s bail application during the session, arguing for his continued detention. The federal government’s legal team was led by Kemi Pinheiro SAN, while Bello’s defense was represented by Joseph Bodunde Dauda SAN.

This case stems from previous investigations and charges against the former governor. In November, the EFCC filed fresh charges alleging N110 billion fraud against Bello. Earlier filings had included 19 charges for money laundering offenses amounting to over N80 billion, involving Bello, his nephew Ali Bello, and two other individuals.

The court has previously dismissed oral bail applications from Bello’s co-defendants, Abdulsalam Hudu and Umar Oricho, in connection with the N110.4 billion fraud case.

The trial will continue on December 10, with Bello remaining in EFCC custody until then.