The immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has pleaded not guilty to a 16-count charge of fraud brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Bello appeared in court on Wednesday alongside two co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, presided over by Justice Maryann Anenih. The trio faces allegations of involvement in a N110 billion fraud scheme.
The EFCC accused Bello of conspiring to misuse state funds for personal gain, including the purchase of high-value properties such as: No. 35 Danube Street, Maitama, Abuja (N950 million), No. 1160 Cadastral Zone C03, Gwarimpa II, Abuja (N100 million), No. 2 Justice Chukwudifu Oputa Street, Asokoro, Abuja (N920 million).
Additional properties include: Block D, Manzini Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja (N170 million), Hotel Apartment in Burj Khalifa, Dubai (5.7 million Dirhams), Block 18, Gwelo Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja (N60 million), No. 9 Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja (N310.4 million).
The EFCC also alleged that the defendants transferred $570,330 and $556,265 to TD Bank, USA, and unlawfully obtained N677.8 million from Bespoque Business Solution Limited.
Dressed in a white caftan and blue cap, Bello entered the courtroom at around 9:45 am and maintained his innocence.
Bello’s appearance follows months of evasion after being declared wanted by the EFCC in April 2024. He surrendered to the agency on Tuesday after an extended standoff.
The trial is set to continue as the court evaluates the extensive charges of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully acquired property.