Justice Maryanne Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has adjourned the N110 billion fraud trial involving former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and two others to July 8, October 8 and 9, and November 12 and 13.
Bello is standing trial alongside Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu on 16 counts bordering on criminal breach of trust and money laundering amounting to ₦110.4 billion. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) stated that the offences contravene Sections 96 and 311 of the Penal Code Law, Cap. 89, Laws of Northern Nigeria, 1963, and are punishable under Section 312.
At Wednesday’s hearing, the EFCC’s first witness, Fabian Nwora, chairman of EFAB Properties, concluded his testimony. Nwora had earlier explained that he initiated a property transaction at No. 1 Ikogosi Street, Maitama, with one Shehu Bello, who expressed interest in the property. The negotiation, however, was concluded by EFCC’s second witness, Segun Adeleke.
Nwora said he was invited to the EFCC on February 8, 2023, regarding the transaction. Adeleke, while being led in evidence by prosecuting counsel Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, said Nwora handed over the property brief to him in 2020. He added that ₦500 million was paid for the property.
Adeleke testified that Yahaya Bello later returned to their office with the agreement, saying he was no longer interested in the property due to the EFCC’s investigation. He noted that Nwora planned to consult their company secretary before responding.
During proceedings, Pinheiro questioned Adeleke about documents issued to a certain Nuhu Muhammed for a property in Gwarinpa. Adeleke confirmed Muhammed purchased one of the units belonging to EFAB Property. At that point, Bello’s counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, objected, arguing that the documents lacked proper foundation. The court overruled the objection.Justice Anenih subsequently adjourned the matter to July 8 and October 8, 2025, for continuation of trial.
Source : https://www.efcc.gov.ng/
