In a dramatic twist to the ongoing ₦80.2 billion fraud case against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, the prosecution has raised alarm over the alleged harassment of a key witness by the ex-governor’s security aides, sparking serious concerns about the integrity of the judicial process.
During proceedings, lead prosecutor Kemi Pinheiro informed the court that the fourth prosecution witness (PW4) had been subjected to intimidation by individuals identified as security operatives linked to the defendant. Pinheiro described the incident as a direct interference with the trial, warning that such acts not only threaten the safety of the witness but also risk derailing the pursuit of justice.
“This level of intimidation could severely hinder our ability to present our case and places the witness at significant personal risk,” Pinheiro told the court, calling for immediate intervention to ensure the safety of all witnesses involved in the trial.
The defence, however, swiftly countered the allegations. Yahaya Bello’s lead counsel, J.B. Daudu, SAN, questioned the validity of the claims, suggesting that the individuals accused may not be officially affiliated with his client. While attempting to play down the gravity of the situation, Daudu nevertheless pledged to investigate the matter and report back to the court at the next sitting.
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“This is not the first witness in this trial, and none have raised such issues until now,” Daudu stated. “However, I will look into these allegations and ensure the witness is given the opportunity to identify those involved so we can determine the facts.”
The court proceedings have since resumed with the continued cross-examination of PW4. Meanwhile, the tension surrounding the alleged witness harassment has cast a shadow over the high-profile trial, raising broader questions about witness protection, judicial independence, and potential obstruction of justice.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has accused Yahaya Bello of misappropriating ₦80.2 billion during his tenure as governor of Kogi State, a charge he has consistently denied. As more witnesses prepare to testify, legal observers are watching closely to see how the court navigates the rising concerns over security and fair trial procedures.