In the ongoing trial at the Federal High Court, Abuja, involving Ali Bello, nephew of Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, and two others, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented evidence of substantial funds being transferred in tranches from the accounts of Kogi State government.
The defendants face 10-count charges related to misappropriation and money laundering.
The prosecution’s witness, Bananda Edward, a Compliance Officer with United Bank of Africa (UBA), testified on Thursday, January 11, 2024, revealing suspicious transactions. Cash withdrawals of N20 million on December 23, 2022, from the Kogi State Government account were highlighted, with withdrawals made in tranches of N10 million each in favor of Kudu Abdulsalam.
Despite objections from the defense counsels, the prosecution, led by Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, argued for the admissibility of the presented documents, asserting their relevance to the case.
Justice James Omotosho ruled in favor of the prosecution, admitting the documents as evidence.
The witness further examined Exhibit E, detailing transactions on December 28, 2022, including multiple cheque withdrawals of N10 million each. Noteworthy transactions involved inflows and outflows in January and February 2023, with specific sums transferred to various individuals and entities.
The trial is set to continue on February 5 and 6, 2024.
Ali Bello and his co-defendants were arraigned on December 15, 2022, facing charges related to a N10 billion money laundering case.
According Pundits, Ali Bello is the youngest Nigerian Barawo who has stolen Billion of Naria in recent times. 😭
