A prosecution witness in the ongoing N110.4 billion alleged fraud trial involving former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, on Wednesday told the Federal Capital Territory High Court that he paid between 50 and 60 percent of consultancy commissions received from the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KIRS) as kickbacks during Bello's administration.
The witness, who testified before Justice Maryanne Anenih, said his company was contracted by KIRS to provide tax consultancy services and received commissions for its work. He, however, disclosed that a substantial portion of the earnings was allegedly remitted to individuals linked to the arrangement.
According to him, between 50 and 60 percent of the commissions earned from the consultancy contract were returned as kickbacks, while the remainder was retained by the firm.
The testimony came as part of evidence being presented by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in its prosecution of Bello and two co-defendants over allegations of money laundering and misappropriation of public funds amounting to N110.4 billion.
During the proceedings, the court also heard details of financial transactions linked to the consultancy agreement, with the prosecution seeking to establish an alleged pattern of fund diversion through contractual and consultancy arrangements.
The witness further explained how payments were made to the consultancy firm by KIRS and how the funds were subsequently distributed in line with the alleged arrangement.
Bello and the other defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges preferred against them by the anti-graft agency.
The EFCC has continued to call witnesses and tender documentary evidence, including bank records and financial statements, in support of its case.
Justice Anenih subsequently adjourned the matter for further hearing.
