The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Ali Bello—reported to be a nephew of Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello—before Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday. Bello was charged alongside Abba Adauda, Yakubu Adabenege, Iyada Sadat and Rashida Bello, who remains at large.
The defendants face 18 counts of criminal misappropriation and money laundering involving N3,081,804,654.00. According to EFCC spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren, all pleaded not guilty. Prosecuting counsel Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) urged the court to set a trial date so the prosecution can present its case, while defence counsel Ahmed Raji (SAN) requested bail for his client pending the hearing and determination of the case.
Justice Egwuatu ordered that the defendants be remanded in a correctional centre while their bail applications are considered. The matter was adjourned until 13 February.
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