The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Maitama has issued a public summons requiring former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to appear for his arraignment on October 24, 2024. He is to face 16 new charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alongside two co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu.
Bello had previously been declared wanted after an arrest warrant was issued by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja on April 17. He is already facing 19 charges related to money laundering and the alleged misappropriation of N80.2 billion, having failed to appear in court for his arraignment on five occasions.
Justice Maryanne Anenih, who is overseeing the new charges, ruled on Thursday that Bello must appear to defend himself against allegations of criminal breach of trust involving N110.4 billion. The summons was prompted by the EFCC’s application, which noted difficulties in serving Bello with the new charges filed on September 24.
In her ruling, Justice Anenih instructed the EFCC to publish the summons in a widely circulated newspaper and to display copies at Bello’s last known address as well as in prominent locations within the court premises.
Although Bello was expected to appear in court on Thursday for the arraignment concerning the fresh charges, his absence once again delayed proceedings. The EFCC remains committed to pursuing this high-profile case, which is one of the most notable fraud allegations against a former governor in recent times.
Written By; Christopher Emuakpeje