Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The decision comes as part of ongoing proceedings related to a series of corruption charges. The court has adjourned the ruling on his bail application until December 10, 2024.

Bello, alongside two other defendants, Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, faces 16 counts of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully obtained property. The charges stem from allegations that the trio misused state funds, including acquiring expensive properties in Abuja.

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During the court session, which saw Bello appearing in court for the first time since being charged, the prosecution opposed the bail request, citing the ongoing legal matters related to a separate fraud case against Bello at the Federal High Court. Despite these objections, the defense lawyer, Joseph Daudu, argued that Bello should be granted bail, emphasizing his respect for the law and his right to prepare for trial.

The prosecution further opposed the bail request on the grounds that Bello’s co-defendants still hold official government positions, which they argued could lead to the commission of further offences. However, the defense maintained that there was no evidence of continued illegal activity and that the objection lacked merit.

As the legal battle continues, the court has directed that all three defendants remain in the custody of the EFCC, while their bail applications will be revisited on December 10.