A Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, until November 11, 2025. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Bello for allegedly diverting and misappropriating state funds worth 80.2 billion during his tenure as governor.
The trial, which resumed on Monday, featured the continuation of the cross-examination of the fourth prosecution witness, Mashelia Arhyel, a compliance officer with Zenith Bank. Arhyel confirmed that multiple cash withdrawals were made from the Kogi State Government House Administration Account, with beneficiaries including several hotels. After the cross-examination, the prosecution called three additional witnesses from Ecobank, Keystone Bank, and Access Bank to testify.
The fifth prosecution witness, Jesutoni Akoni, a compliance officer with Ecobank, produced a statement of account that showed several deposits made by various individuals. The sixth prosecution witness, Mohammed Bello Hassan, a relationship officer with Keystone Bank, testified about a 100 million transfer into an account. The seventh prosecution witness, Olomotane Egoro, a compliance officer with Access Bank, provided 12 sets of documents in compliance with a subpoena.
The trial has shed light on the alleged misuse of state funds, with the prosecution presenting evidence of suspicious transactions and withdrawals. The EFCC’s case against Bello is part of its efforts to combat corruption and financial crimes in Nigeria. The adjournment of the trial until November 2025 will allow the prosecution to continue presenting its case and the defence to prepare its response.
The outcome of the trial is significant, as it will determine the accountability of public officials in Nigeria and the effectiveness of the country’s anti-corruption efforts. The case against Bello is a high-profile example of the EFCC’s efforts to hold those in power accountable for their actions. As the trial continues, it is expected to draw attention to the importance of transparency and accountability in governance.