Money Laundering Trial of Former Kogi State Governor
Introduction to the Trial
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is currently prosecuting the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, in an alleged money laundering trial. One of the key witnesses in this trial is Olomotane Egoro, a Compliance Officer with Access Bank Plc. Egoro has been working with the bank since May 2023 and has testified regarding cash withdrawals made by individuals linked to the Kogi State Government House Administration Account.
Testimony of Olomotane Egoro
Egoro confirmed that Aminu Olanrewaju, a signatory to the account, made several withdrawals from the account. Olanrewaju was identified as a civil servant and Director of Accounts in the Kogi State Government Administration. The witness clarified that as an Access Bank official, he was not privy to the specific use of the funds withdrawn, except for those detailed in the transactions.
Cross-Examination and Findings
Under cross-examination, Egoro stated that the former governor, Yahaya Bello, was not linked to any of the transactions presented in court. The transactions involved various Local Government Areas in Kogi and companies such as Fazab Business Enterprise. The purposes of the payments ranged from sporting equipment to agrochemicals, farm inputs, and medical consumables. Specifically, a N10.6 million lodgment from Ibaji Local Government was for agrochemicals, while a N7.3 million payment from Mopa Muro Local Government was for relief materials.
Admission of Documents in Evidence
The court admitted in evidence the subpoena signed by the Managing Director of Access Bank, which contained statements of account for the Kogi State Government House Administration from January 2016 to January 2024. Other admitted documents included statements of accounts for several companies, such as Westwood Motors Limited and Fozad Oil and Gas Limited. The defense counsel objected to the admissibility of these documents, stating that the certificate of identification did not comply with the Evidence Act.
Proceedings and Adjournment
The prosecution counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, described the objection as a "fishing expedition" and stated that he would provide full reasons during his final written address. Justice Maryann Anenih admitted the documents, noting that their admissibility would be determined subsequently if necessary. The case was adjourned to March 10th, 11th, and 12th, 2026, for the continuation of the cross-examination of the witness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the testimony of Olomotane Egoro has provided insight into the transactions related to the Kogi State Government House Administration Account. While Egoro maintained that the cash withdrawals were in line with the guidelines of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the prosecution and defense counsels have raised several points regarding the admissibility of evidence and the legitimacy of the transactions. The outcome of the trial will depend on the further examination of the witness and the determination of the court regarding the admissibility of the evidence presented.
