By Lami Ibrahim
Fresh details have emerged in the ongoing N110 billion alleged fraud trial of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, as a prosecution witness told the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja that N550 million was converted into United States dollars and used to acquire a property allegedly linked to the former governor.
The witness, Shehu Bello, who appeared as the 17th prosecution witness for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), testified that the property located at No. 1, Ikogosi Spring Close, Maitama District, Abuja, was purchased through a cash payment made in U.S. dollars.
According to the witness, the property was bought from Efab Estate by one Farouk Bello, and he played a role in facilitating the transaction.
“The property was bought by Farouk Bello from Efab Estate. It was paid in USD in cash. I was paid a commission,” Shehu Bello told the court.
The witness did not disclose the amount he received as commission and did not explain any relationship between Farouk Bello and the former governor.
The EFCC alleges that the Maitama property is one of several assets acquired with funds allegedly diverted from Kogi State government coffers during Yahaya Bello’s tenure as governor.
The anti-graft agency is prosecuting Bello and others over the alleged diversion of about N110 billion in public funds.
Yahaya Bello has denied the allegations against him.
The trial continues as the prosecution presents more witnesses and documentary evidence before the court.
