Nigeria TV Info 

Alleged N80B Fraud: EFCC Witness Says Yahaya Bello Not Linked to Transaction

A prosecution witness in the ongoing alleged N80 billion fraud trial involving former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has told the court that there is no direct evidence linking him to the controversial financial transaction under investigation.

The witness, who testified before the Federal High Court in Abuja during proceedings initiated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), stated that the transaction in question was not traced directly to Bello’s personal bank accounts.

According to the witness, the funds allegedly moved through several accounts belonging to corporate entities and individuals, but none of the banking documents presented in court showed a direct transfer involving the former governor.

During cross-examination, the witness explained that the financial records obtained from commercial banks did not list Bello as a signatory to the accounts used in the disputed transactions. The testimony formed part of the EFCC’s attempt to establish how the funds were allegedly moved during Bello’s administration in Kogi State.

However, prosecutors maintained that investigations into the alleged fraud uncovered a complex network of transactions and entities believed to be linked to government officials and associates. They argued that further evidence and testimonies would help clarify the roles played by individuals connected to the case.

Defense counsel for Bello welcomed the witness’s statement, arguing that it supports their position that the former governor was wrongly accused and not directly involved in the alleged financial misconduct.

The trial, which has drawn significant public attention, is expected to continue with additional witnesses and documentary evidence as the court seeks to determine the validity of the allegations.

Legal analysts say the outcome of the case could have wider implications for anti-corruption efforts and accountability among public office holders in Nigeria.