governor barred from traveling outside Nigeria
Ex-governor barred from traveling outside Nigeria
Former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello has been barred from traveling outside Nigeria after securing a N500 million bail from the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja.
The decision, delivered by Justice MaryAnne Anenih, follows his ongoing trial over alleged N10.4 billion fraud.
The charges against Bello include conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and unlawful acquisition of property.
Bello, who was arraigned on November 27 alongside two co-defendants, initially had his bail application denied on December 10.
The court ruled that his first request was filed prematurely before he was arrested or appeared in court.
However, a fresh application submitted by his legal team was granted on Thursday.
The bail conditions include providing three sureties who must own landed properties in upscale areas of Abuja, such as Maitama, Guzape, or Asokoro.
These sureties are required to submit property documents, two passport-sized photographs, and valid identification to the court registrar.
Additionally, Bello must surrender his passport and all travel documents to ensure he remains within the country unless permitted by the court.
Justice Anenih also ordered that Bello will stay in custody at the Kuje correctional facility until all bail conditions are met.
His co-defendants, who are also facing trial, were previously granted bail of N300 million each.
Both the prosecution and defense counsel agreed to expedite the trial, which has been adjourned to January 29 and 30 for further hearings.
