- Yahaya Bello’s fraud trial resumed at the Federal High Court in Abuja with heavy EFCC security measures in place.
- Bello faces 19 counts of fraud, including money laundering, and has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
- The EFCC’s heavy security presence sparked discomfort and speculation among lawyers and court attendees
The trial of former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello on charges of alleged fraud resumed at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, February 24, amid an unusually heavy security presence by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC operatives, visibly armed with various firearms, were stationed at strategic points around the court complex, including roadblocks that prevented access to one of the major routes leading to the court.
In addition to the weapons, dogs and other security equipment were also deployed at the entrance of the court building, further heightening the sense of tension.
Several lawyers, who were present for the trial, expressed their discomfort with the visible show of force.
Some were seen murmuring aloud, questioning the necessity of such an overwhelming security presence, especially as they were subjected to repeated and detailed security checks upon entering the premises.
The presence of the armed EFCC operatives caused significant unease among those attending the proceedings, with some speculating on what prompted such a drastic security measure for a trial.
The trial itself centres on the alleged involvement of Yahaya Bello in a massive money laundering scheme involving N80.2 billion. Bello, who faces 19 counts of fraud, has pleaded not guilty to all charges brought against him by the EFCC.
The charges include money laundering and abuse of office, with the former governor accused of using his position to siphon funds from the state’s coffers.
Bello was granted bail in December 2024 under stringent conditions, including a bond of N500 million and two sureties in like sum.
Despite the heavy security around the court and the allegations against him, Bello has maintained his innocence and has vowed to clear his name in court.
Leading his defense is Joseph Daudu, SAN, while Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, is representing the EFCC’s legal team.
The trial is being heard by Justice Emeka Nwite, who will determine the fate of the former governor, who was once a prominent figure in Nigerian politics.
Court orders public notice of summons for Yahaya Bello at widely circulated newspaper, others
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that court summoned Yahaya Bello over new fraud charges worth N110.4bn.
Public summons authorised by Justice Maryanne Anenih to be published in widely-read newspapers, and others.
