Legal Updates

Judge’s Absence Delays EFCC’s Case Against Yahaya Bello

The hearing of the EFCC’s appeal against the restraining order on the arrest and prosecution of former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, was delayed in the Court of Appeal, Abuja division, due to the absence of the presiding judge. This development prolongs the legal battle between the EFCC and Bello, adding to the complexities of prosecuting high-profile individuals accused of corruption.

Published

2 weeks ago

April 22, 2024

Stella Charles Akupue

Judge's Absence Delays EFCC's Case Against Yahaya Bello

The scheduled hearing of the appeal filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against the restraining order on the arrest and prosecution of former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello was stalled on Monday due to the absence of the presiding judge in the Court of Appeal, Abuja division. This development further prolonged the legal battle between the EFCC and Bello.

Previously, a Kogi State High Court judge had issued a restraining order preventing the EFCC from arresting and prosecuting Bello. In response, the EFCC sought an arrest warrant from Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja to facilitate Bello’s arraignment. However, Bello was not present in court on the scheduled date for his arraignment, leading to claims by the EFCC counsel that he had been whisked away by an individual with immunity.

The EFCC is seeking to arraign Bello on a 19-count charge related to alleged money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of funds amounting to N80.2 billion. In its appeal to set aside the restraining order, the EFCC argues that it is empowered by statute to investigate and prosecute economic crimes, as specified in its Establishment Act.

This development adds to the ongoing legal saga surrounding Yahaya Bello and underscores the complexities of prosecuting high-profile individuals accused of corruption. The delay in the legal proceedings highlights the challenges law enforcement agencies face in enforcing accountability and combating economic crimes effectively.

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