The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday, March 7, 2025, heightened security at the Federal High Court in Abuja by deploying bomb detectors ahead of the trial resumption of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, who is facing an N80 billion money laundering charge.
EFCC operatives, fully armed and accompanied by bomb detection units, conducted a thorough security sweep of the court premises before allowing anyone, including court staff, inside.
Witnesses at the scene reported that:
- The search lasted approximately 30 minutes before the courtroom was opened to lawyers and journalists.
- Only individuals with direct court-related functions were permitted entry, while others were turned back.
- Security personnel arrived as early as 7:30 AM and took control of the court complex, including the main entrance.
At Courtroom 8, where the trial is being held, lawyers from both the prosecution and defense teams were asked to wait until security checks were completed before being granted access.
Former Governor Yahaya Bello, dressed in his signature white babanriga with a multicolored cap, arrived in court ahead of proceedings.
While the specific reason for the increased security measures was not officially disclosed, sources indicate that it is part of joint security efforts to prevent any potential disruptions by unruly elements.
Bello, who was granted bail by the Federal High Court on December 13, 2024, in the sum of N500 million with two sureties, has continued to attend his trial from home.
He faces multiple charges of money laundering, all of which he has pleaded not guilty to.
His legal defense team is led by Joseph Daudu, SAN, while the EFCC’s prosecution team is headed by Kemi Pinheiro, SAN. Justice Emeka Nwite is presided over the trial.
As proceedings resume, all eyes are on the courtroom to see how the trial unfolds, with the EFCC maintaining tight security to ensure orderliness.
