Usman Ododo and Kogi State Rejoice: Yahaya Bello Released from Kuje Prison
Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has been released on bail from Kuje Prison. His successor, Governor Usman Ododo, along with supporters, celebrated his return.
A video circulating online shows Governor Ododo and others jubilantly welcoming Bello home.
Bello was granted bail by Justice MaryAnne Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in the sum of ₦500 million.
The bail conditions require him to provide three sureties, each owning property in high-value areas of Abuja, such as Maitama, Guzape, or Asokoro. Additionally, Bello must surrender his passport and is restricted from traveling outside Nigeria without prior permission.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arraigned Bello, along with Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, on a 16-count charge of conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and unlawful possession of property. All three have pleaded not guilty.
Governor Ododo’s public celebration of Bello’s release underscores the close relationship between the current and former governors of Kogi State.