A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has adjourned the money laundering case involving former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and two others to October 8, 9, and November 12, 13, 2025. The case, filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), also names Umar Shuaib Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu as co-defendants.
During Tuesday’s proceedings, Segun Adeleke, the second prosecution witness (PW2) and a manager at EFAB Property Limited, told the court that none of the defendants had direct dealings with him or appeared on any documents related to the property transaction under scrutiny. He maintained that he had no personal knowledge of Yahaya Bello or the other accused persons in the course of the transaction.
The EFCC’s first witness, Fabian Nwora—Chairman of EFAB Property Limited—had previously testified that no payments were made into the company’s account by Bello or his co-defendants. He revealed that the initial negotiations for the Maitama-based property located at No. 1 Ikogosi Street were opened by him but finalized by Adeleke. Nwora clarified that a man named Shehu Bello, not Yahaya Bello, initiated interest in the property.
Adeleke confirmed that in 2020, Nwora assigned him the property file after Shehu Bello expressed interest. He added that the transaction was concluded with a payment of N500 million. However, Shehu Bello reportedly withdrew from the deal citing EFCC investigations.
Under cross-examination by defence counsel Joseph Daudu (SAN), Adeleke admitted he was brought into the transaction mid-way and did not originate it. Discrepancies in his testimony between the present trial and an earlier one before Justice Emeka Nwite were also highlighted—particularly regarding how the funds were transferred. Adeleke had initially claimed a single payment but later stated it was made in two tranches.
Also testifying on subpoena was Mrs. Williams Abimbola, who presented the statement of account of the Kogi State Government House and a certificate of identification. The defence team noted they would review and respond to the document during later sessions.
Justice Maryanne Anenih adjourned the case until October and November for continuation of trial proceedings.
