Korede Abdullah in Lagos
A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has rejected the oral bail applications of Abdulsalam Hudu and Umar Oricho, co-defendants in the N110.4 billion fraud case involving former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello.
This was contained in a press statement released on Thursday by Dele Oyewale, the EFCC Head, Media and Publicity.
Justice Maryanne Anenih dismissed the oral bail applications on Thursday, citing the need for formal, written applications.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) initially filed 19 charges against Bello, his nephew Ali Bello, Dauda Suliman, and Abdulsalam Hudu for money laundering offenses totaling N80.2 billion.
However, fresh charges dated September 25 increased the total sum to N110.4 billion.
Bello, Oricha, and Hudu are listed as the first to third defendants in the case. Defense counsel J.B. Daudu and A.M. Aliyu argued for their clients’ release from the EFCC holding facility, but prosecutor Rotimi Oyedepo opposed the oral applications, emphasizing the need for written submissions.
Justice Anenih upheld Oyedepo’s objection, stating, “You must come formally.”
The EFCC also confirmed compliance with the court’s order to publish a public summons against Bello in a national newspaper, as he continues to evade court appearances.
The case has been adjourned until November 14 and 20, 2024, for Bello’s arraignment. The public summons was issued on October 3, 2024, after Bello failed to appear in court.
