The troubles may just be starting for former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, who is about to face another round of legal troubles as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is arraigning him on allegations of mismanaging N80.2 billion in public funds.
The proceedings will take place today at the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite.
The case follows months of evasion by Bello, who was previously ordered to be arrested after missing court appearances.
Earlier in April, Justice Nwite had issued an arrest warrant, but efforts to detain Bello were allegedly obstructed by Kogi’s current governor, Ahmed Ododo.
Reports revealed that Ododo used his official vehicle to shield Bello from EFCC operatives.
After months of avoiding legal proceedings, Bello voluntarily turned himself in to the EFCC last Tuesday.
This led to his appearance before Justice Maryanne Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, where he pleaded not guilty and was subsequently remanded in EFCC custody.
Initially scheduled for January 21, 2025, the case was fast-tracked by the anti-corruption agency, ensuring that Bello and his co-accused, including his nephew Ali Bello, Dauda Suleiman, and Abdulsalam Hudu, appear in court today.
The charges they face span money laundering, misappropriation of public funds, and breach of trust.
