A Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello until 11 November 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. The case is a high‑profile example of the EFCC’s efforts to hold powerful officials accountable and to combat corruption and financial crimes in Nigeria.
The trial resumed on Monday with the continuation of the cross‑examination of the fourth prosecution witness, Mashelia Arhyel, a compliance officer at Zenith Bank. Arhyel confirmed that multiple cash withdrawals were made from the Kogi State Government House Administration Account, with several hotels listed as beneficiaries. After his cross‑examination, the prosecution called three additional witnesses from Ecobank, Keystone Bank and Access Bank.
The fifth prosecution witness, Jesutoni Akoni, a compliance officer with Ecobank, produced a statement of account showing several deposits made by various individuals. The sixth witness, Mohammed Bello Hassan, a relationship officer with Keystone Bank, testified about a ₦100 million transfer into an account. The seventh witness, Olomotane Egoro, a compliance officer with Access Bank, submitted twelve sets of documents in compliance with a subpoena.
The trial has highlighted alleged misuse of state funds, with the prosecution presenting evidence of suspicious transactions and withdrawals. The adjournment to November 2025 will give the prosecution time to continue its case and the defence an opportunity to prepare its response. The outcome will be significant for the accountability of public officials in Nigeria and for the effectiveness of the country’s anti‑corruption initiatives, underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability in governance.
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