Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, has entered a plea of not guilty to the charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Bello appeared in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) high court on Wednesday, facing a 16-count indictment related to alleged money laundering amounting to N110 billion. The co-defendants in the case, Umar Shoaib Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, also denied the charges against them.
Following their pleas, Joseph Daudu, Bello’s defence counsel, submitted a bail application. Opposing the application, Kemi Pinheiro, representing the EFCC, argued against granting bail. The co-defendants had previously been released on administrative bail by the EFCC.
In response to Pinheiro, Dauda argued that the only pertinent matter before the court was Bello’s bail application, which had been filed on November 22. Dauda supported the application with a written address, asserting that his client is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
He stated, “It is within his rights to enjoy his liberty while preparing for trial.
“The prosecution’s objection is based on the fact that he is facing charges at the federal high court and has refused to appear to take his plea.
“The court should not use issues from another court to determine issues before the FCT high court.”
Earlier, the EFCC counsel had requested an immediate commencement of the trial, indicating readiness to present the first witness; however, Bello’s counsel noted that the defence team had received the charge sheet at 11 pm on November 26 and needed additional time to prepare their case.
Frances Ibiefo
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