Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, is set to appear in court today after being arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of misappropriating N110 billion. The embattled ex-governor, who had been declared wanted by the EFCC in April, was taken into custody on Tuesday at the commission’s Abuja headquarters.

The EFCC, which initially charged Bello with 19 counts of money laundering involving over N80 billion, later amended the charges to 16 counts, raising the alleged sum to N110 billion. Bello, along with his nephews Ali Bello, Dauda Suliman, and Abdulsalam Hudu, is accused of laundering funds to purchase 12 properties across Abuja.

Despite multiple court summonses and appeals to delay his arraignment, Bello reportedly evaded arrest several times with alleged assistance from his successor, Usman Ododo. In one incident in April, Ododo was accused of facilitating Bello’s escape during an EFCC raid on the ex-governor’s Abuja residence.

In a significant legal development, the Court of Appeal had earlier dismissed Bello’s challenge to his trial and ordered him to surrender himself for prosecution. Efforts by Bello to have his case moved from Abuja to Lokoja were also rejected, leaving him with no legal recourse to avoid today’s court appearance.

ALSO READ: Yahaya Bello Appears at EFCC Office Over Alleged Funds Misappropriation

According to EFCC sources, Bello was arrested on Tuesday afternoon and subjected to hours of interrogation. “He is being held at our detention facility and will face arraignment today at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory,” an EFCC official disclosed.

Justice Maryanne Anenih, who is presiding over the case, had issued a public summons in October requiring Bello to appear in court. Following his failure to comply, the judge extended the summons twice, setting today, November 27, as the final deadline for his appearance.

The charges against Bello include criminal breach of trust and violations of the Penal Code, carrying significant legal penalties if proven. The EFCC had previously struggled to serve the former governor with court documents, prompting public notices and requests for adjournments.

With his arrest, EFCC officials expressed confidence in finally presenting their case against Bello in court. “This marks a crucial step in ensuring accountability,” a top source stated.

Efforts to reach the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, for comments were unsuccessful at the time of this report. As of today, all eyes are on the FCT High Court, where Bello’s long-awaited trial will commence.