Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has pleaded not guilty to a 16-count charge of money laundering. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned him alongside two co-defendants before Justice Maryanne Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja.
The charges allege that Mr. Bello, during his tenure as governor from 2016 to 2024, diverted approximately ₦110 billion from state funds. The EFCC has accused him of conspiring with Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu in this alleged financial misconduct.
This arraignment marks Mr. Bello's first court appearance after months of evading previous summonses. He was declared wanted by the EFCC in April 2024 but surrendered to the agency's headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
The EFCC has been investigating Mr. Bello for alleged financial impropriety during his eight-year tenure as governor. The case has attracted significant attention, with supporters and critics alike closely monitoring the proceedings.
As the trial progresses, the court is expected to examine the evidence presented by the EFCC and determine the validity of the charges against Mr. Bello. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria.
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