The Federal Government has filed a new 16-count charge against former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, accusing him of criminal breach of trust involving N110.4 billion.
The charges, which were submitted to the Federal High Court in Abuja, detail financial misconduct during his tenure as governor between 2016 and 2023.
According to the charges, Bello allegedly used public funds to acquire multiple properties in high-end areas of Abuja, including Maitama, Asokoro, and Wuse, as well as a luxury property in Dubai worth millions of Dirhams.
The allegations also include transferring over $1 million to bank accounts in the United States.
Two Kogi State officials, Abdulsalami Hudu and Umar Oricha, are named as co-defendants in the case.
The charges claim that the trio used public funds for private acquisitions, violating public trust and accountability.
In response, Bello’s legal team, led by A.M. Adoyi, has filed an appeal with the Supreme Court, challenging a warrant issued for his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in April.
Bello’s lawyers have requested that the court halt his arraignment pending the outcome of the appeal.
However, the EFCC’s lawyer, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), objected to the defense’s request, accusing Bello of attempting to delay and evade trial.
Pinheiro argued that the former governor and his team were disregarding judicial processes in an effort to avoid facing the charges.
After hearing arguments from both sides, the court adjourned the case to October 30, when a ruling on the matter will be delivered.
The case continues to attract significant public attention, given its scale and the involvement of high-profile political figures.
