The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama has adjourned ruling on an application filed by former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, seeking the temporary release of his international passport for a medical trip. The ruling is now set for July 17, 2025.
Bello, who is currently facing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged ₦110.4 billion fraud, requested the release of his passport to seek medical treatment abroad.
During Tuesday’s hearing, Justice Maryann Anenih postponed the ruling after hearing arguments from both the defence and prosecution teams.
Represented by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Joseph Daudu, the former governor filed the motion on June 20, supported by a 22-paragraph affidavit and medical documentation, including a letter from his physician overseas.
Daudu argued that the court had previously permitted Bello to formally apply for international travel and emphasized that his client has not violated any bail conditions, nor is he a flight risk. He also presented a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the court’s bail ruling, stating that Bello’s sureties had been informed of his intention to embark on a medical trip.
However, the prosecution, represented by Chukwudi Enyebili (SAN), opposed the request, describing it as an abuse of court process. Enyebili cited a pending similar application at the Federal High Court and warned of the potential for conflicting rulings from courts of coordinate jurisdiction.
Enyebili further argued that Bello’s passport is not in the custody of the FCT High Court but rather the Federal High Court, rendering any directive from the current court ineffective. He also questioned the authenticity of the medical report submitted, noting inconsistencies in the names of the doctors and a lack of verifiable qualifications.
On healthcare alternatives, the EFCC’s legal team suggested that Bello could seek treatment at the Reference Hospital in Kogi State, which was commissioned during his administration to reduce medical tourism.
Highlighting the case’s international money laundering dimension, Enyebili expressed concerns that granting travel permission could hinder the ongoing trial. He also mentioned Bello’s past listing on an Interpol watchlist, although the defence clarified that the alert has since been removed following his court appearances.
The case continues to generate nationwide interest due to the magnitude of the alleged fraud and the political profile of the former governor.
