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EFCC Fails to Arraign Former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello Over Money Laundering Charges

The EFCC’s attempt to arraign former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello for money laundering charges hit a roadblock due to legal complexities and his absence in court.

Published

1 week ago

April 25, 2024

Stella Charles Akupue

EFCC Fails to Arraign Former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello Over Money Laundering Charges

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) encountered setbacks in its attempt to arraign former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello before a Federal High Court in Abuja.

The arraignment was stalled due to Bello’s absence in court, and the EFCC cited difficulties in serving the charges against him at his residence.

According to the EFCC, Bello is protected by an individual shielded by immunity, hindering their efforts to proceed with the arraignment.

The EFCC had planned to arraign Bello, along with three other suspects, Ali Bello, Dauda Suleiman, and Abdulsalam Hudu, before Justice Emeka Nwite on a 19-count charge of money laundering amounting to N80,246,470,088.88.

The case, filed on March 6, 2024, by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Dr. Kemi Pinheiro, is marked FHC/ABJ/CR/98/2024. Despite securing a warrant of arrest for Bello, the EFCC faced legal challenges, including an exparte order restraining them from arresting and prosecuting the former governor.

Another High Court in Lokoja also issued a restraining order against the EFCC, further complicating the legal proceedings. As a result, the Abuja Court postponed the ruling on the charge delivery and Bello’s court appearance until May 23.