Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has requested the Federal High Court in Abuja to release his international passport for a medical check-up abroad. Bello is currently facing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of money laundering involving ₦80.2 billion.
During the hearing, Bello’s lead counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN), submitted an application for the return of Bello’s travel documents, citing urgent medical needs. In response, prosecution counsel Kemi Pinheiro (SAN) opposed the request, stating that a similar application was already before the FCT High Court, which he described as an abuse of court process.
Daudu countered that it was the prosecution that was misusing court procedures. He emphasized that the application was in line with the bail conditions requiring court approval for travel due to pressing medical issues. “After eight years without traveling, he needs to address specific health concerns,” Daudu explained.
Meanwhile, the fourth prosecution witness, compliance officer Mshelia Arhyel Bata from Zenith Bank, denied allegations from the EFCC that he had been harassed by Bello’s security personnel. Daudu expressed doubt about the harassment claim, asserting that Bello is known for his peaceful demeanor. Bata later clarified in court that he had not experienced any harassment.
Further cross-examination revealed that Bello was not listed as a signatory or beneficiary in any of the accounts presented as evidence. Bata confirmed that there was no mention of Bello in the relevant documents.
The judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, adjourned the case to July 3 and 4 for continued trial and scheduled July 21 for a ruling on the travel application.
