By Damilare Adeleye
Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has pleaded “not guity” to the 16 counts charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
It is understood that the trial is ongoing at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Bello, who was arraigned at the FCT High Court on Wednesday, had asked his followers and aides to leave the courtroom to ensure sanity.
Thereafter, Justice Maryann Anenih took the plea of the former governor and two others.
Meanwhile, Kemi Pinheiro SAN is leading the federal government’s legal team for the arraignment, while Joseph Bodunde Dauda SAN is leading the legal team for the former governor in the 16-count charges.
Yahaya Bello, who was brought to court around 8:50am on Wednesday, is facing charges on alleged financial fraud and misconduct during his tenure as Kogi Governor.
Bello, who served as governor from 2016 to 2023, faces charges related to the mismanagement of state funds, as well as accusations of embezzlement and abuse of office.