Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, made a staggering payment of $1,606,763.68 in tuition fees for his children, including a significant advance of $845,852 to cover future enrollments at the American International School in Abuja.
This revelation came during a Federal High Court hearing in Abuja on Wednesday, where Nicholas Ojehomon, an auditor from the school, testified for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The payments, which cover Bello’s children’s tuition until graduation, were made in two installments. One portion was an advance for future school fees, as Bello had prearranged his children’s enrollment.
Ojehomon confirmed that four of Bello’s children, enrolled in various grades from 2 to 8, were included in the tuition payments.
He also disclosed that additional fees were paid for future children who were expected to enroll in the school once space became available.
“Ojehomon confirmed that the total amount paid covered tuition fees for Bello’s four children and also for those who would join later, with an anticipated start date of August 2022,” the auditor explained.
Furthermore, the EFCC has linked these payments to a larger fraud investigation. The EFCC previously alleged that Bello, just before leaving office, made a $760,000 advance payment, later refunded by the school after an investigation.
The court heard that Ali Bello, the former governor’s brother, facilitated the school fee payment process. Ojehomon testified, saying, “Mr. Ali Bello contacted the school and offered to pay the children’s fees until they graduated. The school agreed to the prepayment arrangement.”
The trial continues, with more financial documents and testimonies expected to be presented in the coming sessions.