Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, was unsuccessful in his attempt to relocate his N80.2 billion fraud case from Abuja to his home state.
This decision came after Justice John Tsoho, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, dismissed Bello’s application seeking the transfer of his case.
Justice Tsoho, on Monday, July 8, sided with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which argued that the trial should remain in Abuja.
Bello faces a 19-count charge involving allegations of money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds.
Despite denying the accusations, he has repeatedly missed court appearances for his arraignment.
His legal team had requested that the trial be moved to Lokoja, Kogi State. However, the EFCC opposed this, contending that the offences allegedly occurred in both Kogi and Abuja, making either location suitable for the trial.
In a statement signed by his Special Assistant, Joshua Ibrahim Aji, the Chief Judge concurred with the EFCC’s position, noting that the law allows for charges to be filed in either Abuja or Lokoja.
Additionally, the judge highlighted that similar criminal charges are already under trial in the Federal High Court, Abuja, and that transferring Bello’s case prematurely could interfere with pending legal proceedings.
