Alleged N10bn Money Laundering: Court Admits Exhibits On Suspected Fraudulent Transfers In Kogi Govt Account

Alleged N10bn Money Laundering: Court Admits Exhibits On Suspected Fraudulent Transfers In Kogi Govt Account....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Written By Oshiobugie John

In the ongoing trial of Ali Bello, the nephew of Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, and two other defendants in a N10 billion money laundering case, a prosecution witness made startling revelations on Thursday, January 11, 2023. CONTINUE READING

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Testifying before Justice James Omotsho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, Bananda Edward, a Compliance Officer with United Bank of Africa (UBA), disclosed that substantial funds were transferred in tranches from the accounts of Kogi state government and the state’s government House Administration account in suspicious transactions.

The defendants, facing 10-count charges related to misappropriation and money laundering by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), witnessed the presentation of a statement of account generated from UBA by the witness. The statement highlighted cash withdrawals of N20 million on December 23, 2022, withdrawn in tranches of N10 million each from the Kogi State Government account in favor of Kudu Abdulsalam. Despite objections from the defense counsels, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, the prosecution counsel, moved to tender the transactions as exhibits in evidence. Oyedepo argued that the documents, complying with relevant sections of the Evidence Act, were original and genuine, and the witness confirmed their authenticity on oath.

Justice Omotosho ruled in favor of the prosecution, admitting the documents in evidence. The witness further examined Exhibit E, detailing transactions on December 28, 2022, with cheque withdrawals of N10 million each in four instances in favor of Alhassan Onakaji. The transactions included inflows and withdrawals, and subsequent cash transfers to various individuals and entities. The court adjourned the matter until February 5 and 6 for the continuation of the hearing.

Ali Bello, Yahaya Bello, and two others stand accused in a significant N10 billion money laundering case. Arraigned on December 15, 2022, the defendants face charges related to misappropriation and money laundering, marking a legal battle that unfolds amid heightened scrutiny.

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