Evidence tampering Yahaya Bello – A Federal High Court sitting in Maitama, Abuja, has ordered a probe into alleged evidence tampering in the ongoing ₦10.27 billion fraud trial involving
Ali Bello, nephew of former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello.
Justice James Kolawole Omotosho gave the order after disturbing revelations surfaced during court proceedings.
The judge directed the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate a court registrar
and one of the defendants in the case.
Registrar Confesses in Open Court
During the hearing, the court registrar, Nasiru Onimisi Zubairu, admitted that he deleted WhatsApp messages from a mobile phone
that was admitted as evidence in the trial.
According to his testimony, a defendant in the case, Daudu Sulaiman, approached him with a request to erase certain chat records from the device.
The registrar told the court that the messages were relevant to the case.
He further disclosed that he acted after the defendant promised to provide him with accommodation.
Judge Condemns Alleged Tampering
Justice Omotosho described the development as serious and troubling. He said any attempt to interfere with court evidence threatens the integrity
of the judicial process.
As a result, the judge ordered security agencies to investigate how the registrar accessed the exhibit.
He also asked them to determine whether other individuals played a role in the alleged tampering.
The court warned that anyone found guilty would face the full weight of the law.
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Prosecution Requests Stronger Measures
Meanwhile, the prosecution urged the court to revoke the bail of the defendant linked to the alleged tampering.
The prosecution also requested a forensic examination of the mobile phone to determine the extent of the damage done to the evidence.
However, defence lawyers appealed for restraint.
They argued that investigators should complete their work before the court takes further action.
Background to the Case
Ali Bello, a nephew of former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello, is standing trial over allegations of fraud and money laundering
involving public funds running into billions of naira.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleges that the funds were illegally diverted and laundered through several financial channels.
Because of the political connection and the amount involved, the case has continued to attract national attention.
Court Adjourns Case
Justice Omotosho adjourned the matter to a later date.
The adjournment will allow security agencies to complete their investigations and submit reports to the court.
Why This Case Matters
Legal experts say the incident raises serious concerns about evidence safety in Nigerian courts.
Many observers believe the outcome of the probe could influence how sensitive exhibits are handled in future high-profile trials.
Sojworldnews will continue to monitor developments and provide verified updates as the case unfolds.
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