The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello before the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama over allegations of misappropriating ₦110 billion during his tenure.
Alhaji Bello, dressed in a white caftan and blue cap, arrived at the court under heavy EFCC security around 9 a.m., following months of evading arrest.
He appeared alongside his co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, to face a 16-count charge bordering on conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of illegally acquired property.
The EFCC alleged Bello of diverting state funds to acquire several high-value properties, including a mansion in Maitama, Abuja, worth ₦950 million, and another property in Asokoro, Abuja, valued at ₦920 million.
He was also alleged to have purchased a block of flats in Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, for ₦170 million and a luxury apartment in Dubai’s Burj Khalifa for over 5.6 million dirhams.
In addition, the former governor was accused of transferring $570,330 and $556,265 to TD Bank accounts in the United States. He is also alleged to have funneled ₦677.8 million through a company, Bespoque Business Solution Limited, among other transactions.
Presiding Justice Maryann Anenih is expected to oversee the trial, which has garnered widespread public interest due to the magnitude of the allegations and the involvement of a prominent political figure.
The EFCC maintained that the case underscores its commitment to holding public officials accountable for financial misconduct as Bello and his co-defendants prepare to enter their pleas.
