A Federal Capital Territory High Court on Tuesday rejected the bail application of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, citing procedural flaws in the filing of the request.
Justice Maryanne Anenih ruled that the application was filed prematurely, noting it was submitted before Bello’s arraignment or placement in custody.
“Having not been filed when the first defendant was either in custody or before the court, this instant application is incompetent,” Justice Anenih stated. “Consequently, the application, having been filed prematurely, is hereby refused.”
Bello, alongside two co-defendants, faces charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged involvement in a ₦110 billion money laundering scheme. His arraignment took place on November 27, five days after he was taken into custody on November 26.
Bello’s counsel, Jacob Daudu (SAN), argued that his client, a two-term governor, was aware of the charges through public summons and posed no risk of witness interference or absconding.
“He is a responsible individual and will abide by the conditions set by the court,” Daudu asserted.
However, EFCC counsel, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), opposed the application, describing it as “grossly incompetent” since it was filed before Bello’s arraignment. Pinheiro emphasized that this violated the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, rendering the application invalid.
The second defendant, Umar Oricha, was granted bail under stringent conditions. The court set bail at ₦300 million, requiring two sureties who must own properties in Abuja’s Maitama district valued at no less than the bail bond. The sureties are also required to submit original title documents and affidavits of means, as well as copies of their international passports.
Oricha must deposit his own travel documents with the court and remain in custody until all bail conditions are met.
The case continues as the court upholds due process in handling the high-profile fraud allegations.
