Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, has taken legal action against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) by bringing his case to the Supreme Court. This follows the EFCC's declaration of him as wanted due to a 19-count charge related to alleged money laundering involving N80.2 billion during his time in office.
Bello was scheduled to appear in the Federal High Court in Abuja for his arraignment on Wednesday. However, his legal team, led by attorney A. M. Adoyi, informed the court that they had filed an appeal with the Supreme Court on September 23. This appeal seeks to overturn an arrest warrant that was issued against him on April 17.
Adoyi requested that the court postpone the arraignment until the Supreme Court rules on the pending appeal. He emphasized the importance of waiting for the Supreme Court's decision to ensure that Bello’s appeal is not undermined.
In response, Kemi Pinheiro, a senior advocate representing the EFCC, criticized Bello's lawyer, suggesting he should face sanctions for disrespecting the court. Pinheiro argued that the defense team’s actions were an affront to the judiciary's integrity.
Furthermore, the prosecution pointed out that rather than appearing for trial, Bello had claimed he visited the EFCC’s office. Pinheiro expressed concern that Bello was seen at the EFCC's car park with a person enjoying legal immunity, which could lead to potential chaos if there had been an attempt to remove him from that individual.
After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned the case, setting a new date for October 30 to deliver a ruling on the matter.
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