EFCC Opposes Yahaya Bello’s Bid for UK Medical Trip as Court Sets July 21 Ruling

The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed July 21, 2025, to rule on an application filed by embattled former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, seeking permission to travel abroad for urgent medical treatment.

Bello, who is currently facing a 19-count charge bordering on money laundering and financial misappropriation to the tune of billions of naira, submitted the application dated June 20, requesting the temporary release of his international passport which was seized as part of his bail conditions to enable him to seek medical attention in the United Kingdom.

Arguing the motion before Justice Emeka Nwite, Bello’s lead counsel, Prof. Joseph Daudu (SAN), a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), informed the court that his client was referred to a UK hospital by a cardiologist after recent consultations revealed serious health concerns.

Daudu further emphasized that throughout Bello’s eight-year tenure as governor, he never travelled abroad, thereby proving his willingness to remain within legal jurisdiction.

The defence urged the court to exercise its discretion, assuring that Bello would travel strictly during the court’s vacation and return in time for the continuation of his trial.

However, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) strongly opposed the application. The prosecution expressed concerns that granting such a request might jeopardize the trial, arguing that Bello poses a flight risk due to the gravity of the charges against him.

Justice Nwite, after listening to arguments from both sides, adjourned the ruling on the application to July 21.

The ruling will be a critical test of the court’s stance on balancing defendants’ medical rights with the need to ensure accountability and judicial process, especially in high-profile corruption cases.