Yahaya Bello Remanded in Kuje Prison Pending Bail Application Hearing

The Federal Capital Territory High Court has ordered the remand of Yahaya Bello, the immediate past governor of Kogi State, in Kuje Correctional Centre. Justice Maryann Anenih issued the order on Tuesday while adjourning the hearing of his bail application in a N110 billion money laundering case to January 29 and 30, and February 25 and 27, 2027.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Bello alongside two others on charges related to alleged money laundering. Justice Anenih declined to grant Bello’s initial bail request, describing the application as “premature.” The judge explained that the motion was filed before Bello was officially in custody or brought before the court, making it procedurally defective.

The bail application, dated November 22, was submitted while Bello was neither arrested nor arraigned, contrary to provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA). Justice Anenih emphasized that the ACJA allows bail applications only after a defendant has been arrested, detained, or arraigned. Bello was taken into custody on November 26 and arraigned on November 27.

During the proceedings, Bello’s counsel, JB Daudu, SAN, argued that sufficient grounds had been presented to justify bail, stressing the former governor’s two-term tenure and commitment not to abscond or interfere with witnesses. However, EFCC Prosecuting Counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, opposed the motion, calling it grossly incompetent and prematurely filed.

The court also ruled on the bail applications of Bello’s co-defendants. Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu were each granted N300 million bail with stringent conditions, including two sureties owning property within the Maitama District of Abuja. The defendants must also surrender their international passports to the Court Registrar and seek court permission for any travel.

Until they meet their bail conditions, Oricha and Hudu will remain in Kuje Correctional Centre, alongside Bello.