By Halima Abdulkadiri
The Federal High Court in Abuja has again adjourned the trial of former Kogi State Governor, Mr. Yahaya Bello, to October 31, following his request to suspend proceedings pending an appeal at the Supreme Court.
Justice Emeka Nwite announced the adjournment to rule on Bello’s appeal regarding his arraignment, which has faced multiple delays due to his ongoing legal challenges. The former governor has contested the case on the grounds of an order by the Kogi State High Court that barred the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from investigating him over alleged money laundering.
During Wednesday’s hearing, Bello’s lawyer, Mr. A.M. Adoyi, emphasized that the arraignment issue was already under appeal at the Supreme Court. He argued that proceeding would undermine the pending appeal, referencing case numbers SC/CR/847/2024 and SC/CR/848/2024.
In response, EFCC’s counsel, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), criticized the defendant’s tactics, citing a dismissed appeal regarding service of the charge and proof of evidence. Pinheiro urged the court to exercise its authority over the defendant, who recently presented himself at the EFCC office but was not interrogated.
Justice Nwite, after considering the submissions, decided to adjourn the matter for a ruling, scheduling the next hearing for October 31, where the court will address the issues and the arraignment.
