Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has ordered the remand of Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Gatekeepers News reports that on Wednesday, Bello appeared in court alongside his co-defendants, Umar Shoaib Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, where they were arraigned on a 16-count charge related to alleged money laundering.
Bello, who pleaded not guilty to all charges, had his lawyer, Joseph Daudu, present a bail application on his behalf.
However, Kemi Pinheiro, representing the EFCC, opposed the application, claiming it had been rendered invalid since October. The co-defendants had previously been granted administrative bail by the EFCC.
Dauda argued that the court should focus solely on Bello’s bail application, which was formally submitted on November 22 and accompanied by a written address. He emphasized that his client is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
“It is within his rights to enjoy his liberty while preparing for trial,” he said.
“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.”
After the arguments, Maryann Anenih, the trial judge, rose for a short recess.
After the recess, Pinheiro opposed the bail application of Oricha, the second defendant, because he is still serving as the director-general of the Kogi state government house.
The EFCC counsel argued that there is a likelihood that he will commit the same offence if not in custody.
Responding, Dauda said Pinheiro did not state where the second defendant allegedly committed another offence after being granted bail.
The counsel said the EFCC did not indicate that the second defendant is a habitual offender.
Dauda urged the court to grant the bail application of the second defendant.
In her ruling, the trial judge adjourned ruling on the bail application to December 10 and ordered that the three defendants remain in EFCC custody.
