The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, on Thursday, admitted former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, to bail in the sum of N500 million.

Justice Maryann Anenih, who delivered the ruling, mandated Bello to produce three sureties with properties in highbrow areas of Abuja.

Bello, facing a 16-count charge of alleged money laundering to the tune of N110 billion, pleaded not guilty to the charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The court had earlier rejected Bello’s initial bail request on December 10, citing that it was filed prematurely. Following his arraignment, Bello’s legal team, led by Joseph Daudu (SAN), filed a fresh application, which the court entertained.

During proceedings, Daudu withdrew a further affidavit previously filed in response to the EFCC’s objection, describing the move as a step to ensure smooth deliberations. The prosecution, led by Olukayode Enitan (SAN), did not oppose the withdrawal, and the court struck out the affidavit.

Justice Anenih, while granting bail, stressed that the charges were bailable. Bello must provide three sureties, each with properties in specific Abuja districts, including Maitama, Jabi, and Asokoro.

Additionally, the former governor is required to surrender his international passport and travel documents and will remain in Kuje Correctional Centre until the bail conditions are met.

Similarly, the court granted bail to Bello’s co-defendants, Umaru Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, in the sum of N300 million each. They are also to produce two sureties with properties in designated areas of the FCT and surrender their travel documents.

The court emphasized the need for strict adherence to the bail terms while ensuring a speedy trial of the case.