So, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is once again asking for more time in its case against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. The EFCC, always on the hunt form big political names, seems to be in no rush this time, seeking an adjournment until November 14, 2024.
At the resumed hearing, the EFCC’s counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, cited a public summons issued against Bello. He claimed the court directed that the summons be published and pasted, but the trial judge, Justice Maryann Anenih, swiftly corrected him. According to her, only the summons was to be published, not the charge. It’s interesting that even basic court orders seem to be getting muddled, but that’s just another day in Nigeria’s justice system.
Oyedepo seemed confident that Bello would show up in court on November 14, pointing to the 30-day window provided by the summons. So why the adjournment request? Surely, after all these years, they can’t still be fumbling the logistics? But no, Oyedepo pushed for the arraignment to be moved, apparently to give everyone more time to get their act together.
Joseph Daudu, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria representing the second defendant, wasn’t having it. He objected, pointing out that the matter was supposed to be for arraignment. Daudu made it clear that his client wasn’t a hostage and should not be treated like one. He’s right. This whole “using someone as a human shield” tactic seems more like a delaying strategy than actual legal maneuvering.
Daudu’s frustration was shared by the third defendant’s counsel, who requested the court to at least hear his client’s bail application. But the EFCC, determined to drag things out, argued that the bail couldn’t be taken because it’s a joint charge.
Oyedepo’s legal arguments didn’t exactly inspire confidence either. He claimed that no individual can be arraigned until everyone is present. Fair enough, but that’s not helping anyone when this case drags on indefinitely. His defense that “keeping them for 10 years will have no impact” reeks of indifference. Shouldn’t the goal be swift justice, not playing legal hide and seek for years?
The trial judge, Justice Anenih, wasn’t impressed either. While she rejected the oral bail application, she did instruct the defendants to formally apply for bail. So, now we wait until November 14 and 20 for the arraignment. Let’s hope everyone shows up this time, but given the way things are going, don’t hold your breath.
It’s amazing, though, how drawn-out these high-profile cases always seem to be in Nigeria. For a system that claims to be cracking down on corruption, the EFCC sure knows how to take its time. You have to wonder, is this about justice or just putting on a good show? As always, the real victims are the Nigerian people, left watching from the sidelines while the political elite play their games in courtrooms.
