Amanze ChinonyeA Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has declined the application by former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, seeking permission to travel abroad for medical treatment.
Justice Emeka Nwite, in a ruling delivered on Monday, rejected Bello’s request on the grounds that the medical report submitted in support of the application was not duly signed by a certified medical professional.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which is prosecuting Bello on multiple charges bordering on alleged financial misconduct, had opposed the application, arguing that it was a ploy to delay the trial.
Justice Nwite upheld the EFCC’s objection, stressing that the court would not act on an unsigned or unauthenticated medical document, particularly in a criminal matter involving serious allegations.
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Yahaya Bello, who served as Governor of Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, is currently standing trial over alleged embezzlement and laundering of more than ₦80 billion in public funds. The EFCC has accused him of diverting state funds through proxy companies, unauthorized cash withdrawals, and illicit asset acquisitions during his tenure. The Commission alleges that several transactions were disguised as public service expenditures but lacked proper documentation or execution, with a portion of the funds allegedly converted to cash, used for luxury purchases, or transferred abroad.
Following the end of his tenure, Bello initially failed to appear before the court, prompting the EFCC to declare him wanted in April 2024. Attempts to arrest him reportedly faced obstruction, which sparked public concern about political interference in the judicial process.
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Although Bello has denied the allegations and described the case as politically motivated, the EFCC insists its investigation is backed by financial records and bank evidence. Since the commencement of trial proceedings, the former governor has submitted multiple applications for adjournments and travel permits, mostly on health grounds. The latest request declined due to a lack of proper medical documentation is the most recent in a series of efforts to stall proceedings.
The matter is being heard before Justice Emeka Nwite at the Federal High Court, Abuja. The trial continues.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
