By John Moses
Two prosecution witnesses have told an Abuja High Court that none of the three individuals currently on trial alongside former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello made any direct payments into their company’s account.
Bello is facing a 16-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), including criminal breach of trust and money laundering involving ₦110.4 billion. His co-defendants are Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu.
The EFCC contends that the offences violate Sections 96 and 311 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria (Cap. 89, 1963), and are punishable under Section 312.
During Wednesday’s hearing, the EFCC’s first witness, Fabian Nwora, chairman of Efab Properties, concluded his testimony. He said that while his company had handled a real estate transaction at the centre of the investigation, none of the accused were directly involved in payments.
“I know the former governor, but his name did not appear in any part of the transaction,” Nwora told the court.
He stated that the initial discussions on the property—located on Ikogosi Street, Maitama, Abuja—were initiated by Shehu Bello, not Yahaya Bello.
EFCC’s second witness, Segun Adeleke, confirmed that he concluded the property deal in 2020 after being briefed by Nwora. According to him, ₦500 million was paid for the property, but the deal was later abandoned due to an EFCC investigation.
“Shehu returned with the agreement and said he was no longer interested in the property,” Adeleke said.
The court also heard about another transaction involving a property in Gwarinpa. When questioned by the prosecution, Adeleke confirmed that documents were issued to one Nuhu Mohammed, who had purchased a unit in one of their housing developments.
A defence objection to the admission of these documents was overruled by the presiding judge, Justice Maryann Anenih.
Another witness, Abimbola Williams, appeared under subpoena and presented the statement of account for the Kogi State Government House, supported by a Certificate of Identification.
The case was adjourned until 8 July for the hearing of pending applications and will continue on 8 October 2025.
