By Abiola Olawale
Tension gripped the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) deployed bomb detectors and heavily armed operatives to the premises ahead of the resumption of the trial of the immediate past governor of Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.
It was gathered that the unusual security measures, which included a thorough sweep of the courtroom for explosive devices, sparked panic among court staff, lawyers, and onlookers.
According to eyewitnesses, the EFCC’s deployment began early on Thursday morning, with operatives arriving at the court complex around 7:30 AM in various vehicles.
Witnesses reported that the bomb detectors, accompanied by fully armed personnel, conducted a meticulous 30-minute search before allowing access to the courtroom.
Only individuals with direct business in the trial were permitted entry, while others were turned away at the gate. The heightened security has fueled speculation about possible risks tied to the contentious legal battle.
It would be recalled that Bello is facing a 19-count charge of alleged money laundering involving over N80 billion.
The former governor, who has pleaded not guilty to all charges, was granted bail of N500 million with two sureties in December 2024.
