“Breaking News: EFCC Seeks Adjournment in High-Profile Case Against Yahaya Bello”

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has requested to adjourn the hearing against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and two other defendants until November 14, 2024. This request arose during proceedings at the FCT High Court, where complexities related to the arraignment process were discussed.

Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, representing the EFCC, stated that the adjournment is necessary to ensure Yahaya Bello’s presence, as he had been summoned via public notice. Oyedepo addressed concerns regarding the summons and the publicizing of charges after Justice Maryann E. Anenih pointed out that only the summons were meant to be publicized.

The proceedings became contentious when JB Daudu, SAN, representing the second defendant, opposed the EFCC’s adjournment request. He argued for independent treatment of all defendants and criticized the EFCC’s strategy, suggesting it unfairly used one defendant as a “human shield.” Daudu expressed readiness for arraignment and denounced delays affecting his client.

A.M. Aliyu, SAN, representing the third defendant, supported Daudu’s position and sought to file a bail application. However, Oyedepo countered, emphasizing that the conspiracy charges necessitate a joint arraignment, rendering individual bail applications premature.

Despite the heated exchanges, Justice Anenih decided against immediate bail consideration, directing that formal applications be submitted in writing. The judge subsequently scheduled November 14 and 20 for responses to the summons and potential arraignment of the defendants.