Update on Yahaya Bello Criminal Case with EFCC

Ex-Governor Yahaya Bello Pleads Not Guilty to N80 Billion Fraud Allegations

Naijaonpoint Media reports that the immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, pleaded not guilty to a 19-count charge filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The case is being heard by Justice Emeka Nwite at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Bello was accused of laundering N80 billion, with the EFCC alleging that public funds were funneled to acquire multiple properties in Dubai and Abuja. The case also involves two other defendants, all of whom have denied the allegations.

EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede has described Bello’s trial as one of several high-profile corruption cases the agency is determined to see through. The commission has faced criticism over its approach to prosecuting politically exposed individuals, with some observers accusing it of being selective and poorly prepared in such cases.

As the trial progresses, the spotlight remains on the EFCC’s ability to handle high-profile prosecutions effectively. The outcome is expected to have significant implications for the commission’s credibility and the broader fight against corruption in Nigeria.