The arraignment of Yahaya Bello over an alleged N80.2 billion fraud was stalled as his lawyer failed to appear in court. The case remains unresolved pending further proceedings.
The arraignment of Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, at the Federal High Court in Abuja has been delayed because his lawyers were not present.
The former governor was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on 19 charges of money laundering, amounting to N80.2 billion.
During the day’s proceedings, Kemi Phinero, representing the EFCC as counsel, filed a motion to have the charges read aloud to the defendant and his plea recorded.
Bello, speaking directly to the court, informed Justice Emeka Nwite that he was alerted about the arraignment late on November 28th. Consequently, he couldn’t notify his lawyers in time.
READ ALSO: Yahaya Bello, Others to Remain in EFCC Custody Till December 10
In a brief ruling, Justice Nwite stated that having Mister Counsel present would serve the interest of justice.
He stated that the arrest warrant cannot be compromised in terms of fair hearing, and advised that Mr. Bello’s counsel should be notified accordingly.
Justice Nwite then postponed the case until December 13th for a hearing on time reduction and potential arraignment.
He also instructed that Bello be held in the custody of the EFCC.
Yahaya Bello arrived at court today with a beaming smile, dressed in a white kaftan and cap, amidst tight security.
The most recent arraignment follows two days after Bello appeared before Justice Maryanne Anenih at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, facing a 16-count charge.
