The former governor of Kogi State, Mr, Yahaya Bello, was on Wednesday arraigned at the Federal High Court (FCT) High Court, Abuja, before Justice Maryann Anenih.
Bello, alongside two others; Umar Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, is standing trial in a case marked FCT/HC/CR/778/24 for alleged theft of N110,446,470,089.
The former governor pleaded not guilty to all the charges.
After taking their pleas, the defence counsel, Mr Joseph Daudu, moved the bail application of the former governor.
But counsel for Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Kemi Pinheiro opposed the bail application and argued that the application had been invalid since October.
Dauda countered Pinheiro saying the only relevant application before the court is the bail application of Bello, which was filed on November 22.
Dauda also said the bail application was supported with a written address adding that his client remains innocent until proven guilty.
“It is within his rights to enjoy his liberty while preparing for trial.
“The prosecution’s objection is based on the fact that he is facing charges at the federal high court and has refused to appear to take his plea.
“The court should not use issues from another court to determine issues before the FCT high court,” he said.
Pinheiro opposed the bail application of Oricha because he is still serving as the director-general of the Kogi state government house.
The EFCC counsel argued that there was the likelihood that he would commit the same offence if not in custody.
Responding, Dauda said Pinheiro did not state where the second defendant allegedly committed another offence after being granted bail.
The counsel said the EFCC did not indicate that the second defendant is a habitual offender.
Dauda urged the court to grant the bail application of the second defendant.
In her ruling, the trial judge adjourned ruling on the bail application to December 10 and ordered that the three defendants remain in EFCC custody.
