Former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, on Tuesday attended the Progressives Governors Forum–Renewed Hope Strategic Summit held at the Presidential Villa, popularly known as Aso Rock, in Abuja, even as he continues to face prosecution over alleged multi-billion naira fraud.
The high-level political gathering was organised by the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF), a platform comprising governors elected on the ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The summit focused on governance priorities, economic reforms and strengthening party cohesion in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.
President Bola Tinubu was among prominent figures present at the event, alongside serving governors, former governors and other senior party stakeholders. The meeting formed part of ongoing consultations aimed at aligning state governments with federal policy directions.
Bello’s appearance at the Presidential Villa comes against the backdrop of his ongoing trial instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The anti-graft agency is prosecuting him over alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as governor of Kogi State.
The EFCC had filed charges accusing the former governor of involvement in money laundering and misappropriation of public funds amounting to about N80.2 billion. The alleged offences are said to have occurred during his time in office between 2016 and 2024. Bello has denied the allegations.
The case is currently before the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, where prosecution witnesses have been presenting evidence as part of the ongoing judicial process. Proceedings in the matter remain active, with adjournments granted for continuation of trial.
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Despite the legal challenges, Bello’s presence at the summit drew attention given the prominence of the venue and the significance of the gathering within the ruling party’s political calendar. There has been no court order restricting his movement, and he has continued to appear in public functions.
In a statement released by his media office, Bello described his participation as part of consultations on national development and policy direction. The statement emphasised the importance of unity among APC leaders in advancing the Renewed Hope agenda of the current administration.
Political observers note that the summit was primarily designed to review governance strategies, assess economic reforms and strengthen collaboration between federal and state actors under the APC platform. Discussions reportedly centered on fiscal reforms, security coordination and social investment priorities.
As his trial proceeds in court, Bello remains a visible figure within APC circles, balancing his legal defence with political engagements. The outcome of the case before the Federal High Court is expected to determine the next chapter in the former governor’s public and political life.
