Ali Bello N10.27bn Trial Stalled as New Lawyer Seeks Adjournment | Nigeria News Today
By Enemona Samuel Endurance
The Bureau News | Nigeria News Today
The trial of Ali Bello, Chief of Staff to Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, was on Tuesday stalled at the Federal High Court in Abuja following the appearance of a new defence counsel.
The case, brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), could not proceed before Justice James Omotosho after senior lawyer Ahmed Raji (SAN) announced his appearance for the first defendant and requested time to study the case file.
Defence Seeks Time, EFCC Opposes Move
Raji urged the court to grant an adjournment in the interest of fair hearing, stating that he needed adequate time to review the proceedings and prepare his defence strategy.
However, counsel to the EFCC and Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), opposed the request, arguing that it was a deliberate attempt to delay the trial.
The prosecution maintained that the application for adjournment was unnecessary and could slow down the judicial process.
Court Adjourns Case to May
After considering submissions from both parties, Justice Omotosho adjourned the case to May 5 and May 6, 2026, for continuation of trial.
The Bureau News reports that the EFCC is prosecuting Ali Bello and his co-defendant, Dauda Sulaiman, on a 16-count charge bordering on alleged misappropriation and money laundering amounting to N10.27 billion.
Details of Allegations
The anti-graft agency accused the defendants of diverting funds belonging to the Kogi State Government during the administration of former Governor Yahaya Bello.
Ali Bello, who is a nephew of the former governor, is also linked to financial transactions allegedly involving concealed funds handled through a Bureau de Change operator in Abuja.
According to the EFCC, the alleged offences contravene provisions of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act.
Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to all charges and are currently facing trial.
