…EFCC Expresses Frustration as Star Witness Fails to Appear
The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, in the alleged ₦80.2 billion money laundering case to October 7, 2025, following the absence of a key prosecution witness.
The adjournment stalled what many anticipated would be a high-profile session in the ongoing trial initiated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which has accused Bello of conspiring with others to siphon billions of public funds during his tenure.
Justice Emeka Nwite, who presided over the case, announced the new date after the EFCC’s lead counsel informed the court that its principal witness was unavailable due to unforeseen circumstances, making it impossible to proceed with the day’s hearing.
“My Lord, our witness was unable to appear in court today. We respectfully seek an adjournment to allow us produce the witness at the next sitting,” the EFCC lawyer submitted.
Although the court granted the request, it emphasized the need for faster proceedings, urging all parties to avoid further delays in the interest of justice.
The former governor, who has been facing intense scrutiny over his financial dealings while in office, pleaded not guilty to the multiple-count charge during his arraignment in April. The EFCC alleges that Bello collaborated with others, including aides and corporate entities, to divert over ₦80.2 billion from the state’s coffers through questionable transactions.
The case, which has generated national attention, was initially expected to move into a critical stage with the appearance of the EFCC’s first witness, who was reportedly central to unraveling the alleged fraud trail.
Reacting to the adjournment, Yahaya Bello’s legal team maintained that their client remains innocent of all charges and will vigorously defend himself.
“This is a political witch-hunt. We’re ready to confront the charges when the court resumes,” a member of the defense team told journalists outside the courtroom.
The case has become one of Nigeria’s most watched anti-corruption trials, with civil society groups and anti-graft advocates calling for transparent proceedings and swift justice.
With the next hearing now fixed for October 7, 2025, all eyes remain on the Federal High Court as Nigerians wait to see how the high-stakes legal battle unfolds.
Source:@saharareporters
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