The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday arraigned former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Maitama, Abuja, over allegations of misappropriating ₦110 billion.
Bello, who served as governor of Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, was declared wanted by the EFCC in April 2024 after repeatedly failing to respond to multiple invitations for questioning related to financial misconduct during his tenure.
The EFCC apprehended Bello on Tuesday in Abuja at about 12:55 p.m. after months of evasion. The charges against him were presented before Justice Maryanne Anenih of the FCT High Court.
The anti-graft agency has accused Bello of orchestrating the diversion and embezzlement of public funds, amounting to ₦110 billion, during his tenure as governor.
The details of the alleged fraud involve mismanagement of state funds allocated for infrastructure development and other key projects.
At a previous hearing on November 14, 2024, the EFCC sought an adjournment to allow further preparation for the fresh case it filed against Bello. The court granted the request, adjourning the matter to November 27, 2024.
During Wednesday’s proceedings, the EFCC’s counsel informed the court that the 30-day grace period accorded to Bello under the law to comply with earlier summons was still active at the time of his arrest.
Justice Anenih ordered that Bello remain in custody until his formal plea is taken and deliberations on bail applications are concluded. The court also directed that all parties involved expedite the legal process to ensure swift resolution of the case.
The arraignment marks a significant step in the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to address allegations of corruption and ensure accountability among public officeholders.
Further hearings are expected to delve into the specifics of the charges and the evidence presented by the prosecution.
Bello’s legal team has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the allegations or the court proceedings. However, observers anticipate a robust legal battle as the former governor seeks to defend himself against the charges.
The case underscores the EFCC’s commitment to combating corruption and recovering misappropriated funds to strengthen Nigeria’s financial integrity.
