Court Admits Prior Judgment in N110.4 Billion Fraud Trial of Ex-Governor Yahaya Bello

The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has taken a significant step in the ongoing N110.4 billion fraud trial of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello by admitting a previous judgment as evidence. This development, as confirmed by the Economic Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), marks a crucial phase in the legal proceedings against Mr. Bello, who faces 16 counts of criminal breach of trust and money laundering.

The prosecution, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Kemi Pinheiro, successfully tendered a certified true copy of a judgment and a payment receipt. These documents relate to a suit involving Ali Bello, the nephew of the former governor and current Chief of Staff to Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, and the American International School, Abuja. The admission of these exhibits, which were not opposed by the defense lawyers, further strengthens the EFCC's case.

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From our record, Yahaya Adoza Bello is the father of the four children.

The testimony of the 14th prosecution witness, Nicholas Okehone, an internal auditor at the school, provided key details. He confirmed Ali Bello's involvement in the suit and identified him as the father of a prospective student. However, he clarified that the four other children referenced in the documents had Yahaya Adoza Bello as their father. The witness also read from the admitted judgment, detailing arrangements for the children's school fees up to graduation, including an upfront payment of $569,864.12 into the school's account.

Following the witness's testimony and cross-examination, the prosecution urged the court to suspend hearing a motion by the first defendant challenging the court's jurisdiction. This trial is being closely watched, as it involves a prominent former governor and significant allegations of financial impropriety. The admission of the prior judgment is expected to have a considerable impact on the proceedings.

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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja, on Tuesday, admitted a previous judgement as evidence in the ongoing trial of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, over an alleged N110.4 billion fraud.