Abuja – Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has agreed to appear before the Federal High Court in Abuja on June 13, 2024, to face corruption charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Bello’s lead counsel, Abdulwahab Mohammed, had requested a suspension of the trial, citing concerns for his client’s safety. However, Justice Emeka Nwite rejected the request and fixed June 13 for Bello’s arraignment.
Mohammed claimed that Bello’s life has been under consistent threats in Abuja, forcing him to go underground for safety. However, he assured the court that with the assurance of the EFCC’s cooperation, Bello would appear in court.
Justice Nwite advised Bello to respect the law and order of the court, emphasizing that the EFCC, as a law-abiding body, would not do anything against the provisions of the law. He also noted that the charges against Bello are based on allegations that have not been proved, and that the law presumes any accused person innocent until proven otherwise.
The EFCC counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, did not oppose the undertaking, and the court fixed June 13 for Bello’s appearance.
This development marks a significant step forward in the case against the former governor, who has been accused of corruption during his time in office. The trial is expected to shed light on the allegations and determine Bello’s guilt or innocence.