How I Exchanged Naira for Dollars on Yahaya Bello’s Behalf – BDC Operator

Jamilu Abdullahi, a Bureau de Change operator and the third prosecution witness in Ali Bello’s trial, gave his testimony on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, before Justice Obiora Egwuatu at the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja. According to reports from Naija News, Abdullahi confirmed that he had received funds from agents of the Kogi State Government, which were intended to cover the school fees of former governor Yahaya Bello’s daughters.

During cross-examination by Ali Bello’s lawyer, A.M. Aliyu SAN, Abdullahi explained that the payments he received were exchanged for cash in US dollars. He clarified that it was cash brought to his office specifically for the purpose of paying the school fees.The defense team attempted to present a WhatsApp conversation between Abdullahi and the second defendant, Abba Adaudu, as evidence.

However, the prosecution’s lawyer, Abbas Mohammed, objected to its submission, stating that the court had not been informed about the document beforehand. In response, the defense requested an adjournment to share the chat records with the prosecution, which was granted by Justice Egwuatu. The trial was adjourned to November 6, 2024, for further proceedings.Ali Bello, who is a cousin of Yahaya Bello, faces charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He is standing trial alongside Abba Adaudu, Yakubu Adabenege, and Iyada Sadat. They are accused of money laundering and misappropriation in 18 counts, involving over N3 billion.