Witness Testifies: “I Received N1 Billion to Renovate Yahaya Bello’s Houses”

In a revealing testimony at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, a prosecution witness detailed how he received N1 billion to renovate properties belonging to former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello in both Kogi State and Abuja.

Aminu Rabiu, a businessman associated with Falala Construction and Interior Decoration Company, testified in the ongoing trial of Ali Bello, the former governor’s nephew, and Dauda Sulaiman. Both men are charged with money laundering, allegedly diverting N10 billion from Kogi State’s treasury during Mr. Bello’s tenure.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has also filed separate charges against Yahaya Bello for allegedly siphoning over N80 billion from state funds. However, his trial has faced delays due to his repeated absences from court, with the EFCC unable to execute an arrest warrant issued since April.

During Monday’s proceedings, EFCC’s prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), led the witness through his testimony. Rabiu recounted how he first met Yahaya Bello through his wife in 2009 and subsequently received substantial payments for renovation projects.

“Yes, I know the immediate-past governor of Kogi State. His name is Alhaji Yahaya Bello. I knew him through his wife, Amina Yahya Bello, sometime in 2009,” Rabiu stated, confirming his acquaintance with both defendants, Ali Bello and Dauda Sulaiman.

Rabiu provided a detailed account of the properties he renovated, including locations in Jabi, Benghazi, Sabi Street, Zone 4, Maitama, and a residence in GRA Okene, Kogi State, all belonging to Yahaya Bello.

The witness described receiving payments in both cash and bank transfers, with amounts ranging from N8 million to over N600 million for various projects. He mentioned significant renovations and furnishings for properties in Jabi, Life Camp, and other locations, with payments often made in instalments.

“I renovated the house at No 9, Benghazi Street, finishing and furnishing it. I was paid about N300 million in cash, in instalments,” Rabiu testified, detailing similar work and payments for properties in Jabi and Life Camp.

Rabiu also revealed his company’s involvement in demolishing and rebuilding the Presidential Lodge in the Kogi State Government House, for which he received over N600 million.

The defence lawyers, Abubakar Aliyu and Olusegun Jolaawo, represented Ali Bello and Sulaiman during the session. The trial judge, James Omotosho, adjourned the case until July 16. Meanwhile, Judge Emeka Nwite, overseeing the separate case against Yahaya Bello, scheduled further hearings for July 17.

Mr. Bello, who completed his eight-year tenure in January, had earlier requested a transfer of his case to the Lokoja Division of the court, a request denied by Chief Judge John Tsoho of the Federal High Court.