A High Court in the Federal Capital Territory, Maitama, has issued a public summons for former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, requiring his appearance in court for arraignment on October 24, 2024. Bello faces 16 new charges brought against him and two co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Previously declared wanted, Bello has not appeared for arraignment five times in connection with 19 existing charges pertaining to money laundering and the misappropriation of N80.2 billion. The arrest warrant was issued by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja on April 17.
In a ruling delivered by Justice Maryanne Anenih, Bello is mandated to appear in court to address the latest allegations of criminal breach of trust involving N110.4 billion. The EFCC, which has struggled to serve notice to Bello regarding the new charges filed on September 24, claims that he and his co-defendants misappropriated funds that were entrusted to them.
To ensure Bello receives notice, Justice Anenih has authorized the EFCC to publish the summons in prominent newspapers and distribute copies at Bello’s last known address, as well as in visible areas within the court premises.
Bello’s absence during previous arraignment attempts has delayed the proceedings, and the EFCC remains steadfast in pursuing this notable fraud case against a former governor, underscoring its significance in ongoing efforts to combat corruption in Nigeria.
