Yahaya Bello’s Case Still in Court — EFCC Chair Says “I’ve Done My Job”

EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, says the prosecution of former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, is already underway and firmly in the hands of the court.

Recall that Olukoyede had publicly vowed in April 2024 to resign if Bello was not prosecuted. Responding to public criticism over the slow pace of the case, he insisted that the EFCC has fulfilled its mandate.

“Is Yahaya Bello not being prosecuted? The case is in court. I have three cases against him. Am I the judge to decide conviction?” Olukoyede said during an interview on Channels TV.

According to him, Bello has been investigated and charged, stressing that the EFCC cannot control court proceedings.

Yahaya Bello is currently facing:
• A 16-count charge over alleged N110bn property fraud
• Another 19-count charge involving N80.2bn in fraud and money laundering

Both cases are before the Federal High Court.

The big question Nigerians are asking:
If the EFCC has “done its work,” why is this case still dragging — and how long will justice really take?

#YahayaBello #EFCC #NigeriaPolitics #CorruptionCases

BREAKING: Nigerian Government Withdraws Criminal Defamation Case Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Over Allegations Against Akpabio, Yahaya Bello

The Federal Government of Nigeria has formally withdrawn the criminal defamation and cyberbullying case instituted against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly. Court documents show that the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation filed a notice of discontinuance on December 12, 2025, effectively terminating the prosecution at the Federal High Court.

The charges stemmed from petitions by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, following comments made by Akpoti-Uduaghan during a televised interview on Politics Today, where she alleged that both men were plotting to eliminate her. Despite earlier petitions to the Inspector General of Police alleging threats to her life, the senator was charged for publicly raising the claims.

Several prominent figures, including Governor Usman Ododo, Senator Ekpenyong Asuquo, Ambassador Reno Omokri, and Sandra Duru, had been listed as witnesses for the complainants. The withdrawn case is one of two criminal matters filed by the Federal Government against the senator, with the second case expected to come up in court and possibly face a similar fate.

The development follows a public announcement by Senate President Akpabio that he had instructed his lawyers to withdraw all defamation-related lawsuits against individuals, after a cleric’s sermon influenced his decision. However, Akpabio still has a separate ₦200 billion civil defamation suit pending against Akpoti-Uduaghan over allegations of sexual harassment, in which he is demanding massive damages and public apologies.

Ex-Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello Declares 2027 Senate Bid Amid N80 Billion EFCC Fraud Probe

Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has officially announced his candidacy for the Kogi Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 elections, despite facing an ongoing EFCC prosecution over alleged N80 billion fraud and money laundering during his tenure. Bello made the declaration at the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, where he met traditional rulers, religious leaders, and constituents. His bid places him in direct contest with incumbent Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Bello denies all allegations, and his trial is expected to continue into 2026, with bank officials testifying on alleged suspicious transactions linked to his administration.

Tinubu Criticized for Appointing Ex-Governor Yahaya Bello to APC Reconciliation Committee Amid ₦80 Billion Corruption Allegations

The African Transparency Initiative (ATI) has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to the APC national reconciliation committee. ATI described the move as a “grave assault on integrity and accountability,” citing Bello’s alleged involvement in corruption, illegal mining, terrorism sponsorship, and political violence, including the diversion of over ₦80 billion during his tenure. The group warned that Bello’s inclusion undermines Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, erodes public trust, and sends a negative signal to the international community. ATI called for his immediate removal and urged law enforcement agencies to pursue ongoing allegations without political interference.

Kogi Judicial Workers Begin Indefinite Strike as Magistrates Decry Extreme Hardship, Poor Welfare

Kogi State’s judiciary has plunged deeper into crisis as magistrates endure severe neglect, with many arriving in court wearing worn-out clothing and commuting on commercial motorcycles due to the absence of official vehicles. Some magistrates reportedly ride alongside defendants and suspects, while many struggle to feed their families or pay rent, worsening domestic tensions. Despite yearly budget allocations, critics say both former Governor Yahaya Bello and current Governor Usman Ododo have failed to address the decaying justice system.

The situation escalated further as the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Kogi chapter, declared an indefinite strike starting December 4, 2025, over the government’s failure to pay October 2024 salary arrears and the 2025 leave bonus. Civil society groups warn that the worsening conditions could cripple access to justice unless urgent reforms are implemented.

Again, EFCC witness says no law breached in fund withdrawals by Kogi State.

The fourth prosecution witness of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC in the alleged money laundering trial of the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has re-affirmed that fund withdrawals by the state government did not breach any banking law.

During cross-examination before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, Mshelia Arhyel Bata, a compliance officer with Zenith Bank, also reiterated that the name of the former governor did not appear as beneficiary in the account presented as evidence.

The Defence Counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, had drawn the witness’ attention to certain withdrawals by one Umar Comfort Olufunke, which the prosecution did not mention.

The prosecution had concentrated on withdrawals by Abdulsalam Hudu, the Cashier of Kogi State Government House.

The withdrawals, in multiples of N10 million, were between December 2017 and April 2018, with beneficiaries being various hotels in Kogi State, according to the witness.

On cross-examination, the witness also confirmed withdrawals by one Alhassan Omakoji between November 2021 and December 2022, which did not exceed N10 million per withdrawal.

He said the withdrawals were in line with the limits set by the Central Bank of Nigeria CBN.

He admitted that he was not aware of any law that regulates how Kogi State Government spends its money or allocation.

Senator Natasha violated Penal Code, must face Criminal Charges – FG.

The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice has insisted that the defamation charges filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan were properly instituted in line with the provisions of the Penal Code Law of Nigeria and the Constitution.

The AGF’s office stated this in its response to the senator’s preliminary objection to the three-count criminal charge pending before the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Maitama, presided over by Justice Chizoba Oji.

The charges against Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, stemmed from petitions filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, following her public claims that the duo had conspired to assassinate her.

AGF Insists Charges Are Lawful
In its counter-affidavit, the AGF’s office maintained that the decision to prosecute the senator was taken after a comprehensive investigation by the Nigeria Police Force, which reviewed all petitions from both the complainants and the defendant.

“The three counts were preferred against the defendant pursuant to the Penal Code Law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and in the bona fide exercise of the prosecutorial powers of the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation as guaranteed under the Constitution,” the prosecution stated.

It further argued that the senator’s actions contravened provisions of the law, stressing that the case was filed “in the public interest, the interest of justice, and to prevent abuse of legal process.”

According to the AGF’s office, the charges were neither politically motivated nor an abuse of prosecutorial power.

“The criminal charge against the defendant arose from the comprehensive and conclusive investigation of the case, including all petitions and parties involved, by the Nigeria Police Force.”

Without Yahaya Bello APC Will Lose Kogi In 2027 – Commissioner Warns.

Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Bashir Gegu, has warned that the All Progressives Congress (APC) might lose Kogi State in the 2027 general elections if President Bola Tinubu sidelines former Governor Yahaya Bello.

Gegu gave the warning at a political gathering at a Kogi Local Council.

He argued that Bello remains the architect of the state’s current political structure and a decisive factor in the ruling party’s continued dominance.

The speech, which he shared on his Facebook page, quoted the commissioner as saying, “If former Governor Yahaya Bello is not carried along, APC cannot win Kogi State. That is the plain truth.”

He dismissed social media’s criticism of a recent rally in Lokoja, insisting it was not about power play, but an expression of gratitude to Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for their leadership.

Gegu added, “The rally was a show of appreciation, not a protest. But let no one make the mistake, without Yahaya Bello, there’s no APC victory in Kogi.”

The commissioner credited Bello for laying the groundwork for political stability and federal visibility in the state, saying his influence still cuts across all districts.

Yahaya Bello under fire over use of Kogi State letterhead in letter to army chief

Yahaya Bello under fire over use of Kogi State letterhead in letter to army chief.

Former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has come under intense criticism after posting and later deleting a congratulatory letter to the newly appointed Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, written on the official Kogi State Government letterhead despite no longer being in office.

The letter, which bore the state coat of arms and Bello’s signature as “Executive Governor,” triggered widespread outrage after being shared on social media. Critics accused the former governor of clinging to power and blurring the boundary between personal identity and state authority.

In the letter, Bello congratulated the new Army Chief but included a contentious line that quickly drew attention, “It gives me renewed hope that my worthy successor, His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, will now have you in his corner as he continues to tackle insecurity in his domain.”
Observers said the remark was problematic, as it suggested that the Chief of Army Staff could “belong” in a governor’s “corner,” a distortion of the military’s federal command structure.

The civic accountability platform @Kogi_Xcommunity first drew attention to the issue. In a viral post, the group wrote: “Yahaya Adoza Bello, former Governor of Kogi State, has deleted his personally signed letter to the new Chief of Army Staff after facing backlash from netizens.

“Tinubu Doesn’t Need to Campaign in Kogi State; There’s No Opposition Here,” — Yahaya Bello Boasts

Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not need to campaign in Kogi State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the ongoing endorsement rally held in Lokoja on Saturday to support the second-term bids of President Tinubu and Governor Usman Ododo, Bello confidently stated that Kogi is a stronghold of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In his words, the governor said:

“Your Excellency, Mr. President, you don’t even need to come to Kogi State to campaign. There’s no opposition here. Those making noise elsewhere have not seen the lion—when the lion roars, they will run with their tails between their legs.”

Bello assured the President of total support from the people of Kogi State, emphasizing that the state remains fully committed to the Tinubu-led administration and the continuity of APC governance at both state and federal levels.

EFCC Raises Alarm as Yahoo Boys Turn to Human Rituals for Wealth.

EFCC has raised alarm over the growing trend of internet fraudsters, popularly known as “Yahoo boys” or “G-boys”, engaging in ritual activities, including human sacrifices and other supernatural practices, to enhance their fraudulent operations.

The anti-graft agency issued the warning in a post on X, stating, “G-boys are now going spiritual, involving themselves in rituals and making it the new usual. EFCC will come for any individual. Then, it won’t be business as usual.”

The post sparked mixed reactions on social media. A user, @Hajimuba504, wrote, “At this point EFCC needs a deliverance department to make Pastor join task force. Una go soon add ‘Chief Priest’ to recruitment list no worry.”

Another user, @Odenigbo511, criticised the agency’s priorities, saying, “EFCC, Our GDP was 800 Billion in 2014. Some people have looted it to 150 Billion in 2025 and it’s not yahoo boys, but you haven’t prosecuted anyone.”

Similarly, @Raypowerjustice commented, “Shameless criminal entity that can’t account for all the cars, phones, laptops, money and houses they seized. Where is Yahaya Bello? Politicians are your best friends, young boys are your enemies. You have resigned yet fake pastor Chairman.”

Yahaya Bello Hails Tinubu As Angel Sent By God To Fix Nigeria

Transactions in Kogi govt’s accounts violated no regulations Witness in Yahaya Bello’s trial.

A prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of ex-governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, and two others has claimed that the transactions carried out in accounts belonging to the state government violated no known banking regulations.

The witness, Mrs. Abimbola Williams, who is a Compliance Officer with the United Bank for Africa (UBA), featured as the third prosecution witness.

Bello is being prosecuted before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He is being prosecuted with Umar Oricha (Director General, Kogi State Government House) and Abdulsalami Hudu (an Accountant with the state government).

The EFCC is, in the 16-count charge, alleging criminal breach of trust to the tune of N110.4 billion.

Under cross-examination by the lawyer to Bello, Joseph Daudu, Williams said she was not the relationship or account manager of the Kogi Government House account.

She added that the account is domiciled in Lokoja (the capital of Kogi State), while she works in Abuja.

The witness said the banks do not enquire from customers the purpose for which they were making cash withdrawals, but that such a question could be asked when making transfers, and the relationship with the beneficiary in cases of high-volume transactions.

Same Chairman of EFCC told Us If Bello Wasn't Arrested He'd Resign; He's Back On The Streets–Sowore.

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has strongly criticized the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), arguing that the agency has become too weak to fight corruption in Nigeria.

In a video shared by TV Platinum, Sowore said the EFCC has lost credibility and can no longer handle high-profile corruption cases because the country’s powerful politicians have already taken control of the commission. He likened the EFCC to a powerless institution that no longer serves its original purpose of holding corrupt leaders accountable.

He reminded Nigerians that the current EFCC chairman, Olanipekun Oluyede, once made a bold promise to resign if former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, was not arrested. Despite that promise, Bello has remained free. Sowore pointed out that Bello had traveled, enjoyed vacations, and later returned to public life while still facing trial. Instead of being treated like a suspect, he claimed, Bello has continued to receive respect and influence within the political space.

Sowore also alleged that Bello is working towards a political comeback in Kogi State, which he described as an attempt at a “back door third term.” This, he said, shows how corruption and impunity remain deeply rooted in Nigeria’s political system.

In his words, "This same chairman of EFCC told us that if Bello wasn't arrested, he would resign. Bello was never arrested. Bello decided that after he had gone around and played and gone on vacation, came back to come and play, he's back on the streets."

Today's Headlines: Natasha Accuses FG of Double Standard; US Vows Visa Ban on Corrupt Nigerian VIPs.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused the Federal Government of political persecution and double standards over the six-count criminal defamation charges filed against her. The lawmaker, representing Kogi Central, argued in court that while her petitions against Senate President Godswill Akpabio were ignored, the government rushed to prosecute her based on complaints from Akpabio and former Kogi governor Yahaya Bello. Her legal team, led by four Senior Advocates of Nigeria, described the charges as unconstitutional, frivolous, and aimed at silencing opposition voices.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, who pleaded not guilty in June and was granted bail on self-recognition, insists the case is a misuse of the criminal justice system. She contends that defamation is civil in nature and should not be criminalised. Meanwhile, a coalition of over 350 women’s rights groups has petitioned the United Nations, alleging gender-based discrimination in her suspension from the Senate. The activists argue that the standoff undermines women’s participation in politics and breaches Nigeria’s international obligations. The matter resumes in court on October 20

Alleged Cybercrime Case Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Stalls, Adjourned to October 20

The cybercrime trial of suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was adjourned to October 20, 2025, after her legal team filed a preliminary objection challenging the court’s jurisdiction. The objection, raised by her counsel Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN), questions the alleged abuse of prosecutorial powers by the Attorney General of the Federation.

The senator, arraigned on June 30 on a six-count charge under the Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act 2024, is accused of spreading false information electronically to incite violence and public disorder. Specifically, she is alleged to have publicly claimed that Senate President Godswill Akpabio instructed former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello to kill her.

At the resumed hearing on September 22, prosecution counsel David Kaswe said they were ready to begin, with a witness present. However, the judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, ruled that the court must first resolve the jurisdictional objection before proceeding with the trial.

Key Allegations Against Akpoti-Uduaghan:

Accused of transmitting false, inciting information electronically.

Allegedly stated that Akpabio and Yahaya Bello plotted her assassination.

Charges brought under the Cybercrimes Prohibition, Prevention, etc. (Amendment) Act 2024.

Court Adjourns Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Cybercrime Trial to October 20.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the cybercrime trial of suspended Kogi Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to October 20, 2025, after her defence team challenged the court’s jurisdiction.
She faces six charges under the Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, over statements allegedly implicating Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Governor Yahaya Bello in threats to her life.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the cybercrime trial of suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, to October 20, 2025, after her defence team challenged the court’s jurisdiction.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, arraigned on June 30 and granted bail on self-recognition, faces a six-count charge under the Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024.

One of the counts alleged: “That on or about April 1, 2025, while addressing a crowd at Ihima Community, Kogi State, you — Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan — intentionally caused the following communication to be transmitted via a computer system and network, to wit: ‘…and Akpabio told Yahaya Bello, I am saying, standing by what I have said. He told him that he should make sure that killing me does not happen in Abuja, it should be done here, so it will seem as if it is the people that killed me here…’ And you… knew this contained a threat that could harm the reputation of Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, as the President of the Senate…”

Another charge stated the same words but linked the alleged threat to “Yahaya Adoza Bello, a former Governor of Kogi State.”

At Monday’s sitting, prosecuting counsel David Kaswe announced readiness to proceed, saying the first witness was present and a television screen mounted in court. But Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyer, Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN), objected, arguing it was an abuse of the Attorney-General’s powers and that the defence had not been served witness statements.

Justice Mohammed Umar ruled that the objection must first be resolved before trial, and adjourned the case to October 20.

FG’s Lawsuit Against Suspended Senator Natasha Stalled.

The cybercrime trial of suspended Kogi Central senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has been stalled.

The case, filed by the Director of Public Prosecution, accuses her of spreading false and dangerous claims against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and ex-Kogi governor Yahaya Bello.

She was arraigned on June 30 on a six-count charge and granted bail, with trial expected to open today.

When proceedings began, defence lawyer Ehiogie West-Idahosa raised an objection, saying the court lacked jurisdiction and thajt the case abused the powers of the Attorney General. He also noted the defence had not been served witness statements.

Although the prosecution said it was ready with its first witness, Justice Mohammed Umar ruled that the objection must be decided first. The case has now been adjourned to October 20.

Akpoti-Uduaghan is accused of telling a crowd in Ihima, Kogi State, and later on television, that Akpabio directed Bello to have her killed in Kogi so it would appear like community violence.

The charge is brought under the Cybercrimes Act of 2024 and carries serious penalties.

Trial of Suspended Senator, Natasha Begins Monday.

The suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, will on Monday, September 22, 2025, face trial at the Federal High Court, Abuja, over alleged cybercrime offences against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello.
Naija News reports that the trial follows a six-count criminal charge coordinated by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was arraigned on June 30, 2025, where she pleaded not guilty after charges bordering on the alleged circulation of false and injurious information via electronic means were read to her.

According to the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025, the Senator is accused of making electronic communications intended to malign, incite, endanger lives, and breach public order.

One of the counts accused her of alleging at a public gathering in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, on April 1, 2025, that Akpabio instructed Bello to have her assassinated in Kogi State so it would appear as though it was carried out by locals.