Taiwo Popoola
The immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has returned home to a great celebration following his release from Kuje prison.
Bello was received by his successor, Usman Ododo, and his supporters.
In a video circulating online, Ododo and his followers were seen jubilating over Bello’s return.
On Thursday, Justice MaryAnne Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT High Court, granted Bello bail in the sum of N500 million.
Justice Anenih stipulated that Bello should provide three sureties, each owning property in select high-value areas of Abuja, such as Maitama, Guzape, or Asokoro.
The judge also ordered Bello to surrender his passport and restricted him from travelling out of 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.
Justice Anenih had previously rejected Bello’s initial bail application on procedural grounds but granted bail to his co-defendants.
