The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has fixed July 17, 2025, to rule on an application by former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, seeking permission to travel abroad for medical treatment.

Justice Maryann Anenih announced the date on Tuesday after listening to arguments from both Bello’s legal team and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Bello, who is currently facing money laundering charges brought by the EFCC, filed an application through his lawyer, Joseph Daudu (SAN), asking the court to release his international passport so he could seek medical attention overseas.

Daudu told the court that the application, dated June 19 and filed on June 20, was supported by a 22-paragraph affidavit sworn to by Bello himself, laying out 13 reasons why the request should be granted. He also presented two key exhibits: copies of previous court rulings admitting Bello to bail.

In opposition, EFCC counsel Chukwudi Enebele (SAN) argued that granting Bello permission to travel could stall the case. He further noted that Bello’s legal team had filed a similar application at the Federal High Court, warning that if one court granted the request while another denied it, it would put the judiciary in an awkward position.

Enebele also raised the issue of sureties, saying they should have been formally notified since they stand as guarantors for Bello’s bail.

Responding, Daudu dismissed the prosecution’s concerns, insisting that the sureties were already aware and that filing in both courts was necessary because the EFCC had brought charges in both. He also brushed aside concerns over any pending Interpol red notice, saying Bello had willingly submitted himself for trial and never violated court orders.

After hearing both sides, Justice Anenih adjourned the matter, saying the court would deliver its ruling on July 17.

All eyes are now on the court as it prepares to decide whether Bello can temporarily leave the country for medical reasons, even as his trial continues in Nigeria.