Abuja’s Federal Capital Territory High Court has set November 14 and 20 as the new dates for the arraignment of Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, and two other defendants ¹. Justice Maryann Anenih made this ruling after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) requested an adjournment.
Bello faces 16 fresh charges, and the EFCC’s counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, explained that the court had issued a public summons against Bello, which must be published. Oyedepo expects Bello to appear in court on November 14, citing the 30-day duration of the summons.
However, JB Daudu, counsel to the second defendant, objected to the adjournment, stating that the defendants should not be used as a “human shield” for Bello’s absence. Daudu argued that the defendants have been in custody for over a month and should be arraigned or discharged.
Key Points:
- Adjournment: The case has been adjourned to November 14 and 20 for Bello’s response to summons and/or arraignment.
- Bail Application: Justice Anenih rejected the defendants’ oral application for bail, ordering them to submit a formal application.
- Fair Hearing: Daudu argued that keeping the defendants in custody without arraignment violates their right to fair hearing.
- EFCC Charges: Bello faces 16 fresh charges, including counts of conspiracy.
The EFCC’s request for adjournment has sparked controversy, with the defense counsel arguing that it undermines the principles of fair hearing .
