Yahaya Bello’s Arraignment Postponed
The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has adjourned the arraignment of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, to November 14. Justice Maryann Anenih announced the new date during Thursday’s hearing, following the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) request. The EFCC filed a fresh 16-count charge against Bello.
Summon Issued by Court
The adjournment comes after the court issued a public summons for Bello’s appearance. The prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), explained that the summons was published, but only the summons and not the charges were ordered to be pasted. Oyedepo confirmed that Bello is expected to appear on November 14 for arraignment.
Objections from Defence Counsel
JB Daudu (SAN), representing the second defendant, opposed the adjournment, stating that the court scheduled the case for arraignment. He argued that the prosecution’s unpreparedness warranted the defendants’ release, as they have been in custody for over a month. He insisted that the court should not punish his client for the first defendant’s absence.
Call for Bail Application
Counsel to the third defendant, A.M. Aliyu (SAN), supported Daudu’s objection and requested the court to hear his client’s bail application. He noted that the application had already been filed and served. However, Oyedepo opposed this, stating that the charge is joint and includes conspiracy, making it difficult to proceed with individual applications.
Debate Over Fair Hearing
Daudu reiterated his concerns about the prolonged detention of the defendants, stressing that their fundamental human rights were at stake. He urged the court to consider granting bail, arguing that holding the defendants without arraignment violated their right to fair hearing. He also expressed dissatisfaction with delaying the case until Bello’s appearance.
Court’s Decision
After hearing submissions from all parties, Justice Anenih refused the oral application for bail. She instructed the defence to submit formal bail applications for consideration. The judge then adjourned the case to November 14 for Bello’s arraignment and November 20 for further proceedings.
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