Kogi: EFCC Grants Bail to Yahaya Bello’s Co-Defendants
*Requests Court Extension for Bello’s Appearance
Concisedaily – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has granted administrative bail to co-defendants of former Kogi Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, in an alleged money laundering case.
During a hearing before Justice Maryann Anenih at an Abuja High Court on Thursday, EFCC counsel Jamiu Agoro disclosed that the bail was granted to Bello’s co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, who are named as the 2nd and 3rd defendants in a new 16-count charge filed by the EFCC.
Agoro requested an adjournment, noting that the 30-day period provided in the summons issued to Bello had not yet expired. He explained to the court that proceeding before the 30 days lapsed would be premature and suggested reconvening on November 27. The earlier date of November 20 was unsuitable for the prosecution.
Counsel for the 2nd Defendant, Aliyu Saiki, SAN, confirmed his client’s bail and expressed no objection to the adjournment request, with ZE Abass, counsel for the 3rd Defendant, also concurring.
The prosecution also sought the court’s permission to post a hearing notice at Bello’s last known address. Justice Anenih approved the adjournment and the request for notice posting, stating, “The application is granted.”
The case was subsequently adjourned until November 27.
