By Milcah Tanimu
Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello will spend Christmas in custody after the Federal Capital Territory High Court denied his bail application. Justice Maryann Anenih ruled that the application, filed on November 22, was “premature” since it was submitted before Bello was detained or arraigned, rendering it incompetent.
Bello faces charges from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged ₦110 billion money laundering scheme. The defense, led by JB Daudu (SAN), argued that Bello posed no flight risk and would not interfere with witnesses. However, the prosecution, represented by Kemi Pinheiro, countered that the bail request was invalid, as it predated his custody and arraignment.
Justice Anenih emphasized that bail applications are valid only after arrest or arraignment. Although Bello filed his request on November 22, he was taken into custody on November 26 and arraigned on November 27.
Meanwhile, co-defendant Umar Oricha was granted bail with strict conditions, including ₦300 million and two sureties with property in Maitama worth the bond sum. Until these terms are met, Oricha will remain in prison alongside Bello.
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