Kogi Governor’s Cousin’s Trial on Hold, Witness’s Illness Delays Alleged N10bn Fraud Case
The trial of Ali Bello, cousin of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, and Dauda Suleiman, accused of laundering N10 billion, hit a snag on Tuesday in Abuja. The prosecution’s third witness, Rabiu Musa, suddenly complained of feeling unwell, forcing the adjournment of the proceedings.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged the duo with 10 counts of money laundering. Musa, a claimed bureau de change operator, testified through an interpreter due to language barriers.
Initial confusion arose when Musa, despite claiming familiarity with the defendants, couldn’t recall details of their relationship. He also denied knowing a person named Hudu, whose name appeared in a transaction record presented as evidence.
Midway through his testimony, Musa expressed discomfort, citing high blood pressure. The judge offered him water and time to recover, suggesting he use the adjournment to review the transactions recorded by his employees.
The defense teams, represented by Z. E Abass for Bello and Nureini Jimoh (SAN) for Suleiman, were present throughout the proceedings.
