The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the money laundering case against former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, until October 30, 2024.
The adjournment was granted by Justice Emeka Nwite following Bello’s appeal to the Supreme Court, seeking to overturn the arrest warrant issued by the trial court on April 17.
During the hearing, Bello’s defence counsel, A.M. Adoyi, informed the court that the arraignment matter, which is under appeal, had been taken to the Supreme Court. Adoyi referenced the Court of Appeal ruling on August 28 that directed Bello to appear for arraignment before Justice Nwite. He also noted that this ruling had been challenged at the apex court, providing the appeal numbers SC/CR/847/2024 and SC/CR/848/2024.
Adoyi urged the court to wait for the Supreme Court’s decision on the appeal before proceeding with the arraignment. However, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, argued against further delays, accusing the defence of abusing the court process. Pinheiro described the various applications as “deception” and urged the court to sanction Adoyi for contempt.
Pinheiro criticised the defence for repeatedly avoiding arraignment, stating that the court had adjourned four times for Bello’s appearance. He pointed out that the Court of Appeal had dismissed an earlier appeal by Bello challenging the mode of service of the charges and ordered him to submit himself for arraignment.
Pinheiro also called for disciplinary action against Adoyi, accusing him of disregarding court orders. He urged the judge to exercise his coercive powers to address the situation.
Adoyi, however, maintained that the arraignment was subject to the appeal at the Supreme Court and requested the court to await the higher court’s decision.
In response, Justice Nwite stated that he would rule on the matter after reviewing the arguments. He then adjourned the case to October 30 for a ruling and possible arraignment.
Bello is facing a 19-count charge related to money laundering and the misappropriation of N80.2 billion. The case has garnered significant attention, especially following Bello’s visit to the EFCC, where he reportedly appeared with Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. The EFCC had declined to detain Bello, citing procedural issues, and later allegedly attempted to arrest him at the Kogi Government Lodge in Abuja.
Pinheiro noted that the EFCC’s invitation was specifically for Bello and not to be accompanied by others, particularly someone with immunity, such as Governor Ododo. He emphasised that arraignment should take place in court, not at the EFCC car park, referring to photos of Bello arriving with a full security detail.
The case will continue on October 30, 2024, when Justice Nwite is expected to deliver a ruling on the next steps.
