The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reported via its official X (formerly Twitter) account that a prosecution witness in the ongoing ₦80.2 billion Kogi State fraud case has been allegedly harassed by security aides of former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello.
During proceedings before Justice Emeka Nwite at the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, Lead Prosecution Counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, raised serious concerns over the conduct of the interference, explaining that Prosecution Witness 4 (PW4) — identified as Mashelia Aryan Mashelia Bata, a Compliance Officer with Zenith Bank — was allegedly accosted by one or two of the defendant’s security aides. Pinheiro described the move as a “serious interference with the criminal justice process.”
The revelations came as the trial resumed against Mr. Bello, who faces accusations of diverting public funds during his tenure as Kogi State Governor.
Defense Counsel, J.B. Daudu, SAN, responded by questioning whether the individuals involved were indeed security personnel attached to his client. He also committed to investigating the incidence thoroughly, stating:
“This is not the first witness to testify and none have been harassed. However, I will look into it and get back to the court on the next adjourned date. I will also speak to the witness so he can identify who harassed him.”
The court adjourned further proceedings to allow the defense sufficient time to probe the allegation and report its findings. The next session will determine whether any formal motion or sanctions will be sought concerning the alleged interference.
The incident adds a tense dimension to the high-profile trial—widely followed for its implications on corruption accountability and the rule of law within Nigeria’s political elite.
Credit: @officialEFCC via x.com
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