Abuja Federal High Court rules in favour of EFCC, allows key evidence as trial of former Kogi governor continues
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has dismissed an objection filed by the defence team of former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, in his ongoing alleged ₦80.2 billion fraud trial.
The objection, raised during proceedings, sought to challenge the admissibility of a key document presented by the prosecution, specifically a prior statement made by a witness to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The defence argued against the re-introduction of the document, identified as Exhibit 46.
However, presiding judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, dismissed the objection, describing it as speculative and lacking merit. The ruling effectively allows the prosecution to rely on the document as part of its evidence in the high-profile case.
The EFCC is prosecuting Bello on a 19-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering, criminal breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds amounting to ₦80.2 billion.
During the hearing, a prosecution witness, Abdullahi Jamilu, confirmed under cross-examination that he made only one statement to the EFCC. He also acknowledged that certain company names and transaction details referenced in court were not included in that initial statement, a point the defence attempted to use in its argument.
Despite this, the court admitted additional documents tendered by the prosecution without objection, further strengthening the EFCC’s case as proceedings continue.
The case has been adjourned to May 6 and 7, 2026, for the continuation of cross-examination and further hearing.
The latest ruling is seen as a significant step in the trial, as it preserves critical evidence for the prosecution. However, the court has yet to reach a final verdict on the allegations against the former governor.
