In a major development in the N80 billion fraud case against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, the Federal High Court in Abuja has admitted a judgment from the FCT High Court regarding the payment of his children’s school fees, despite objections from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Justice Emeka Nwite ruled that the document, which relates to a dispute involving the American International School (AIS), is relevant and therefore admissible. The EFCC had argued that the document stemming from a civil case was inappropriate for a criminal trial and premature since the prosecution had not closed its case.
The court disagreed.
“The objection is preemptive and lacks merit. Admissibility is guided by relevance and compliance with the law, not the civil or criminal nature of the originating suit,” Justice Nwite stated.
Context of the Case
Bello and several others are accused of conspiring in 2016 to launder over N80.2 billion, allegedly misappropriated through a criminal breach of trust a violation of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended).
One of the EFCC’s key allegations is that funds used to pay AIS tuition were proceeds of crime. During the proceedings, EFCC witness Nicholas Ohehomon from AIS confirmed the children’s enrollment, the postpaid school fee arrangement, and presented financial records and admission documents.
Bello’s defense, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Joseph Daudu, countered with the FCT High Court judgment (Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/2574/2023), arguing it disproves EFCC’s claim that the school fees were illicitly funded.
No Government Funds Involved
Following the court’s ruling, witness Ohehomon clarified that there was no direct transfer from the Kogi State government to AIS in connection with the tuition payments.
Background and Developments
Bello was previously declared wanted by the EFCC, which accused the Kogi State government of shielding him. He was eventually arrested, and a parallel fraud case is also ongoing at the FCT High Court.
The case has been adjourned to May 9 for continuation.
Credit: Nairametrics News
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