The trial of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello over alleged ₦110 billion fraud has been adjourned to April 3, April 24, and May 6, 2025, following a contentious court session at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court on Wednesday.
Justice Maryann Anenih made the ruling after hearing arguments from both the prosecution and defense, with the session dominated by disputes over the availability of key documents and the introduction of a surprise witness.
At the heart of the courtroom drama was a heated exchange between the legal teams.
The lead defence counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, accused the prosecution of withholding critical evidence, including the sworn statements of the second defendant.
According to Daudu, the defence was blindsided by the prosecution’s witness, Fabian Nworah, a property developer, whom they had no prior knowledge of. He argued that the prosecution was turning the legal process into a “hide and seek” game, depriving the defense of a fair opportunity to prepare for cross-examination.
Similarly, Abubakar Aliyu, SAN, representing the third defendant, demanded access to forensic reports and digital evidence mentioned in the case filings. He argued that the prosecution’s failure to provide these documents raised concerns about transparency and due process.
However, prosecution counsel Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, dismissed these objections, insisting that all required evidence had been served on the defence as far back as November 27. He accused the defence of employing delay tactics and emphasized that the prosecution was under no obligation to provide every document unless formally requested.
Despite the defence’s objections, the court proceeded with the testimony of Fabian Nworah, Chairman of EFAB Property Nigeria Ltd.
Nworah detailed how his company sold a high-value property at No. 1 Ikogosi Street, Maitama, Abuja, to Shehu Bello for ₦550 million. However, months later, Bello returned the property documents, claiming the EFCC was investigating the transaction and demanding a refund.
EFAB Property initially declined to reimburse the money but later complied after the EFCC directed the company to return the funds to a designated account. The refund was processed in two instalments.
Interestingly, Nworah noted that while he had dealt directly with Shehu Bello, the official name on the transaction documents was Dr. Bello Ohiani, raising further questions about the true ownership and intent behind the purchase.
The trial is expected to resume in April, with the defence likely to continue pressing for access to key documents while the prosecution pushes forward with its case.
The case promises to be one of the most closely watched legal battles in recent Nigerian history.