Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the money laundering case brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. The trial is now scheduled to resume on March 6 and 7, 2025, following the presentation of witnesses by the prosecution.
Prosecution Calls First Witness
During the proceedings, prosecution counsel Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, called two witnesses, one of whom appeared on subpoena. The first witness, Segun Adelakun, identified as the General Manager of EFAB Properties Limited, testified that Yahaya Bello’s name did not appear on two properties located at 1 Ikogosi Road, Maitama, and another in Gwarinpa.
Adelakun recounted an introduction to a man named Shehu Bello in 2020, during which discussions about purchasing the property took place. He noted that he had met Shehu Bello three times: for the initial introduction, for payment, and to execute legal documents for the EFAB property.
Details on Property Transactions
The prosecution inquired about another property on 5th Avenue in Gwarinpa, which Adelakun confirmed was purchased by one Nuhu Mohammed for N70 million, with payment made via bank transfer. However, he could not recall which bank facilitated the transaction. When asked about initiating discussions with Shehu Bello, Adelakun affirmed that he did not initiate any conversations.
The defense counsel questioned whether Shehu Bello signed documents in his presence, to which Adelakun responded negatively, stating he did not see the defendant during the transaction.
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Second Witness Testifies
Following the first witness, the prosecution indicated they had another witness to present. Despite objections from the defense regarding being taken by surprise, the second witness, Williams Abimbola, a compliance officer with the United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), was allowed to testify. She presented a subpoena, which was accepted as evidence without objection from the defense.
Abimbola read documents requested in the subpoena, including the statement of account for the Kogi State Government House from January 1, 2016, to January 31, 2024, as well as account statements for Maselina Njoku from January 1 to December 31, 2022, and account opening packages for the American International School.
Next Steps in the Trial
After the testimony, Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned the case until March 6 and 7, 2025, for the continuation of Yahaya Bello’s trial, as the prosecution prepares to present further evidence against the former governor.
