The Federal High Court in Abuja witnessed a heavy security presence on Monday as operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission manned the premises for the resumed trial of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, over alleged fraud.
According to The PUNCH, EFCC personnel, armed with various firearms, positioned themselves around the court complex, blocking a major access road with one of their vehicles.
Security reinforcements included sniffer dogs and other weapons deployed at the court entrance, creating an atmosphere of heightened tension.
Lawyers and court visitors expressed discomfort over the strict security measures, particularly the rigorous checks imposed by the operatives. Some legal practitioners were heard murmuring in protest, questioning the necessity of the heavy security deployment.
Bello, who is facing a 19-count charge related to alleged money laundering amounting to N80.2 billion, had been granted bail on December 13, 2024, by the Federal High Court in Abuja. Justice Emeka Nwite set his bail at N500 million with two sureties in the same amount.
The former governor has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His legal defense is led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Joseph Daudu, while the EFCC prosecution team is headed by Kemi Pinheiro, SAN.
