Former Governor of Kogi State Yahaya Bello has been summoned by the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Maitama to answer a fresh 16-count charge filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The charges relate to an alleged criminal breach of trust involving N110.4 billion. Justice Maryanne Anenih, presiding over the case, issued the order for a public summons following multiple failed attempts to prosecute the former governor.
The EFCC, which filed the charges on September 24, 2024, accuses Bello and two other defendants—Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu—of engaging in large-scale financial misconduct during Bello’s office.
The charges reportedly centre on fraudulent misappropriation of state funds, involving sums said to have been siphoned from various government accounts under Bello’s administration.
Court Summons and Publication Order
Due to Bello’s consistent absence in court, the EFCC applied for a public summons to compel his appearance. Justice Anenih granted the application and directed the EFCC to publish the summons in a national newspaper with wide circulation.
The EFCC must also deliver copies of the summons to Bello’s last known address and post them at conspicuous locations within the court premises.
The court set a new date, October 24, 2024, for Bello to appear and respond to the charges. His absence has caused the postponement of his arraignment on more than five occasions, frustrating the legal process and delaying the prosecution’s efforts to proceed with the case.
Overview of the Charges
The 16-count charge centres on allegations of mismanagement of N110.4 billion in public funds while Bello was governor.
The charges outline various instances of criminal breach of trust, where funds meant for the development of the state were allegedly diverted for personal and unlawful purposes. Oricha and Hudu, named co-defendants, are also alleged to have played roles in the scheme.
Legal Consequences and Public Concern
If found guilty, Bello and his co-defendants could face severe legal penalties, including hefty fines and prison sentences. The case has attracted significant attention due to the magnitude of the alleged fraud and Bello’s profile as a former state governor. Public concerns have also mounted regarding the impact of such financial crimes on the development of Kogi State during his tenure.
The EFCC has consistently brought Bello to justice, but his repeated absence from court proceedings has raised questions about his willingness to confront the charges. The upcoming hearing on October 24 is now seen as a pivotal moment in the case.
The commission has vowed to pursue the matter vigorously, in line with its mandate to combat corruption and financial crimes across Nigeria.
