The arraignment of the former governor of Kogi state Yahaya Bello at the federal high court Abuja, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, has been stalled due to the absence of his lawyers in court.
The EFCC had brought the former governor for arraignment on a 19-count charge of money laundering to the tune of N80. 2 billion.
At the day’s proceedings counsel to the EFCC Kemi Phinero had moved an application for the charge to be read to the defendant and his plea be taken, but Bello, addressed the court himself, telling the trial judge Justice Emeka Nwite that he was notified of the arraignment in the late hours of November 28th and as such he could not inform his lawyers.
In a short ruling, Justice Nwite held that it would be in the interest of justice for the defendant’s counsel to be present for their clients arraignment.
The trial judge noted that a warrant for his arrest cannot be sacrificed on the altar of breach of fair hearing, as Bello’s lawyers should be put on notice.
The court however adjourned to December 13, 2024 for arraignment and order that Bello be remanded in custody of the EFCC.
Yahaya Bello who was charged with 80.2 billion Naira fraud allegation has refused to appear in court several times, which lead to the court issuing a bench warrant against him.
Editor Paul Akhagbemhe
