A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has approved bail for former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, requiring him to provide N500 million and two sureties.
The decision was delivered on Thursday by Justice Maryann Anenih.
Earlier, on December 10, the court had denied the ex-governor’s initial bail application, citing its premature filing before his custody or court appearance.
This led Bello’s legal team to reapply for bail, which was heard during Thursday’s proceedings.
Bello faces a 16-count charge of alleged money laundering involving ₦110 billion, alongside two other defendants.
All parties have pleaded not guilty to the charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
At the hearing, Joseph Daudu (SAN), representing Bello, informed the court of ongoing discussions with the EFCC’s legal team to expedite trial proceedings.
He also requested a review of bail conditions, including an expansion of locations for acceptable property sureties within the FCT.
In response, EFCC counsel Olukayode Enitan (SAN) confirmed the discussions and assured the court of the prosecution’s cooperation in advancing the case.
While leaving the bail decision to Justice Anenih’s discretion, he emphasized their commitment to justice.
Justice Anenih ruled in favour of the bail application, citing that the charges were bailable.
She set the conditions at N500 million with three notable sureties who must own properties in specified FCT areas, including Maitama, Jabi, and Asokoro.
The former governor was also ordered to surrender his international passport and remain in Kuje Correctional Centre until all conditions were met.
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