Justice Maryann Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has deferred the arraignment of Yahaya Bello, former Governor of Kogi State, to November 27, 2024.
This delay stems from a request by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which cited the need for additional time to secure Bello’s presence in court on fresh 16-count charges.
The charges against Bello, alongside co-defendants Shuabu Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, involve allegations of criminal conspiracy and breach of trust amounting to N110.4 billion.
The EFCC’s counsel, Jamiu Agoro, emphasised that the 30-day period allowed for Bello’s summons, issued on October 3, remains in effect.
Consequently, he sought an adjournment, as well as permission to post a hearing notice at Bello’s last known address to ensure compliance.
The court had previously mandated public summons for Bello’s appearance, directing publication in widely circulated newspapers and placement at his last address and prominent court locations.
Both Oricha and Hudu, represented by their respective counsels, were granted administrative bail by the EFCC and raised no objection to the adjournment request.
Their attorneys, Aliyu Saiki (SAN) and ZE Abass, concurred with the EFCC’s proposal to reconvene on November 27, after an agreement with the defence team.
Upon reviewing the submissions, Justice Anenih approved the EFCC’s request, allowing the posting of the hearing notice at Bello’s residence.
She further clarified that this additional time would facilitate due process and ensure the 30-day summons period is honored.
The next hearing, scheduled for November 27, will include Bello’s arraignment on all charges presented by the EFCC.
