Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, faces fresh criminal charges from the Federal Government of Nigeria, adding to his legal troubles. Already battling an N80.2 billion money laundering charge, Bello is now charged with a 16-count indictment for criminal breach of trust involving N110.4 billion. Two state officials, Abdulsalami Hudu and Umar Oricha, are co-accused in the case.
According to reports gathered by Naijassador, the defendants are accused of using funds from the Kogi state treasury to acquire properties in high-end areas of Abuja and Dubai. The offences violate sections 96 and 311 of the Penal Code Law Cap.89, Laws of Northern Nigeria, 1963, and are punishable under Section 312.
The charge sheet details several illegal property purchases, including N950 million for a property on Danube Street, Maitama District, Abuja, and N100 million for a Gwarimpa I District property. Other properties allegedly acquired include those in Asokoro, Wuse, and Guzape Districts of Abuja, ranging from N66 million to N920 million. In Dubai, the defendants reportedly purchased a hotel apartment using 5,698,888 Dirhams. They are also accused of sending over $1 million to an account in the United States and unlawfully obtaining N677.8 million from a business firm.
Earlier, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had charged Bello with a 19-count fraud case, alleging he misappropriated N80.2 billion while in office. During a court hearing by Justice Emeka Nwite, Bello’s lawyer, A.M. Adoyi, sought an adjournment, stating that the case was being appealed at the Supreme Court. Adoyi argued that the trial should wait for the Supreme Court’s decision before proceeding with arraignment.
EFCC counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, went against the defense’s tactics, accusing them of disrespecting the court and delaying the legal process. He called for the court to sanction Adoyi for contempt, emphasizing that Bello had repeatedly avoided court appearances despite previous rulings requiring his attendance.
Justice Nwite acknowledged the arguments but ultimately adjourned the case to October 30, when the ruling and arraignment will hold. During the hearing, it was revealed that Bello had visited the EFCC’s office accompanied by Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, which the EFCC counsel described as inappropriate given Ododo’s immunity as a sitting governor. The EFCC expressed concerns about Bello’s continued avoidance of court appearances, urging him to face the charges rather than play games.
The EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, criticized Bello for attempting to gain public sympathy and avoiding accountability. He emphasized that the commission is determined to present its evidence in court and hold Bello accountable for the alleged crimes. Oyewale dismissed claims of persecution or assassination attempts, reiterating that Bello must have his day in court.
The legal troubles for Yahaya Bello continue to mount as the Federal Government and the EFCC press multiple charges of fraud, money laundering, and criminal breach of trust. His efforts to delay the trial through appeals and alleged political tactics have led to adjournments, with the next court date scheduled for October 30. The EFCC remains resolute in pursuing justice, while Bello’s defence insists on awaiting the Supreme Court’s decision.
