The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has dismissed a jurisdictional challenge filed by former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello in the N110.4 billion fraud case brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Court Ruling
Justice Maryanne Anenih ruled that the court possesses the requisite jurisdiction to hear the 16-count charge, which includes criminal breach of trust and money laundering. Bello faces trial alongside Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu.
The former governor had sought to strike out the case, arguing that the FCT High Court lacked territorial jurisdiction and that the proceedings constituted an abuse of court process due to a similar charge pending before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Prosecution Arguments
Prosecution counsel Kemi Pinheiro urged the court to dismiss the application, describing it as an attempt to delay the trial. He argued that the alleged offences fall under the Penal Code and that properties acquired with proceeds are located within Abuja. Pinheiro also maintained that the two cases differ in substance and law.
Witness Testimony
The prosecution called its 16th witness, Baba Baffa, who testified about the purchase of a shop at Sherrif Plaza, Abuja, for 66 million naira. Another witness, Shenu Bello, an estate agent, testified on several property transactions involving Ali Bello, including a property on Durban Street bought for 650 million naira and a Maitama property acquired for 550 million naira paid in US dollars.
Justice Anenih dismissed the application for lack of merit and ordered the trial to continue. The court adjourned the matter until June 17, 2026, for continuation of the trial.
