The former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has sparked controversy by claiming he is ready to face his 19-count charge by the EFCC, yet fears arrest could keep him from court. Despite his absence during the scheduled arraignment on Tuesday, his legal team was present to voice his concerns.
Lead counsel, Mr. Adeola Adedipe, SAN, explained to the Federal High Court in Abuja that Bello is hesitant to appear due to an outstanding arrest warrant. "The defendant is eager to appear before the court but is deterred by the fear of arrest," Adedipe stated, requesting the court to reconsider the arrest order previously issued.
Adedipe argued that at the time the arrest order was issued, the charges had not been formally served, a situation rectified only during Tuesday's proceedings with the court approving a substituted service through his lawyer.
In a bold legal move, Bello's team also challenged the legitimacy of the EFCC itself, claiming the federal agency was illegally established as it lacked the necessary approval from all 36 state assemblies, as mandated by the constitution.
Countering, EFCC’s counsel, Mr. Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, insisted that the arrest warrant remain in place until Bello physically appears in court. "The defendant’s continuous absence and subsequent motions are merely delaying tactics to frustrate the judicial process," argued Pinheiro. He emphasized that no applications from Bello should be entertained until he presents himself for arraignment.
The EFCC also reassured that the legality of its establishment had been affirmed by the Supreme Court, dismissing the former governor’s claims as unfounded. They noted the severity of the charges against Bello, including allegations of laundering public funds to purchase properties in high-profile areas and transferring funds overseas.
The drama continues as the court awaits Bello’s next move, with his legal team hinting at a possible appearance if assurances against immediate arrest are confirmed. The case, laden with constitutional and legal complexities, promises further developments as both parties stand their ground.
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