Yahaya Bello, co-defendants to remain in EFCC custody until Dec 10
The fate of former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello and two co-defendants in a prominent corruption case remains uncertain, as Justice Maryann Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has adjourned ruling on their bail applications until December 10.
The defendants were arraigned on charges brought against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
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Their legal counsels, Joseph Bodunde Dauda, SAN, representing Bello, and Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, for the EFCC, made passionate submissions during Tuesday’s proceedings.
Dauda argued that Bello should be granted bail, emphasising that the law presumes his innocence until proven otherwise. He further contended that Bello, who had not left the country for the past seven years, was not a flight risk.
Dauda also reassured the court that the former governor would not interfere with witnesses or evidence, as the EFCC had already completed its investigation and filed charges against the defendants.
However, EFCC counsel Pinheiro countered, claiming that there were concerns that Bello might attempt to influence witnesses or tamper with evidence. In light of these concerns, the prosecution urged the court to deny bail.
After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Anenih postponed her decision to December 10. In the meantime, the judge ordered that the three defendants remain in the custody of the EFCC.
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