The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday deployed bomb detectors to the Federal High Court in Abuja ahead of the resumed trial of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello over alleged money laundering.
Accompanied by heavily armed operatives, the bomb detectors carried out thorough security checks, preventing anyone—including court staff—from entering the courtroom until the search for possible explosive devices was completed.
Our correspondent, who arrived early at the court, observed that the security sweep lasted approximately 30 minutes before access was granted to lawyers and journalists. Individuals without direct involvement in the proceedings were denied entry.
The security team arrived at the court complex as early as 7:30 a.m. in multiple vehicles and swiftly took control of security operations from the main gate. At the entrance of Court 8, where the trial is taking place, lawyers representing both the federal government and the former governor were asked to wait while routine security measures were conducted.
Following the search, only those with official court business were allowed inside.
At the time of this report, Yahaya Bello, dressed in his customary white babanriga with a multicoloured cap, had already entered the courtroom, awaiting the commencement of proceedings.
While the specific reasons for the EFCC’s heightened security measures remain unclear, NEWS BULLETIN reliably gathered that the action was part of a coordinated effort by security agencies to prevent any potential disruption by hoodlums.
It will be recalled that on December 13, 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja granted Bello bail in the sum of N500 million with two sureties in like sum. He has since been attending his trial from home.
Bello is facing money laundering charges involving N80 billion but has pleaded not guilty. His defence team is led by Joseph Daudu, SAN, while the EFCC’s legal team is headed by Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, before Justice Emeka Nwite.
