The Federal Capital Territory High Court has adjourned the arraignment of former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello and two others to November 14. The adjournment follows an oral request by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) during Thursday’s session.
The former governor, along with Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, faces a 16-count charge brought by the EFCC. At the session, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, representing the EFCC, explained that a public summons had been issued against Bello and was expected to run its 30-day course by mid-November. He requested the postponement of the arraignment, as Bello had yet to appear in court.
However, Joseph Daudu, SAN, counsel for the second defendant, objected, stating that the defendants in court should not be delayed due to Bello’s absence. He argued that they were ready to proceed with the arraignment and criticized the EFCC’s approach.
Justice Maryann Anenih ruled that the arraignment would be postponed to November 14, while rejecting a request for bail. She instructed the defense to file formal bail applications before further consideration.
The case will also resume on November 20 for additional matters related to the defendants’ fundamental rights applications.
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