Maitama, FCT – OBSERVERSTIMES: In a significant legal development, a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Maitama has issued a public summons against Yahaya Bello, the immediate past governor of Kogi State. The court has ordered Bello to appear and respond to a fresh 16-count charge related to alleged fraud amounting to N110.4 billion.
The summons requires Bello to attend court for his arraignment on October 24, along with two other defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu.
Court Ruling and EFCC Involvement
Justice Maryanne Anenih issued the public summons following an application from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). In her ruling, Justice Anenih instructed the EFCC to publish the summons in a widely circulated newspaper and to post copies at Bello’s last known residence, as well as in prominent areas within the court premises.
The EFCC has stated that it has faced challenges in serving Bello with the charges filed on September 24, which accuse the former governor and his co-defendants of criminal breach of trust.
Delayed Arraignment
Bello’s absence from the previously scheduled arraignment on Thursday led to a delay in the proceedings. The court’s decision to issue a public summons underscores the seriousness of the charges and the urgency of bringing the defendants to justice.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on the upcoming court date, as it marks a critical moment in the ongoing investigation into the alleged fraudulent activities during Bello’s tenure as governor.