The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Maitama has issued a public summons against the immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, over a fresh 16-count charge pending against him. The court has ordered Bello to appear for arraignment on October 24, 2024, alongside two other defendants.
Court’s Ruling and EFCC Application
Justice Maryanne Anenih issued the public summons on Thursday, following a request by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The EFCC had informed the court that it was unable to serve Bello with the charges, which were filed on September 24, 2024. These charges accuse Bello and his co-defendants of criminal breach of trust involving N110.4 billion.
In response to the EFCC’s application, Justice Anenih ordered the publication of the summons in a widely circulating newspaper. Additionally, she instructed that copies of the summons be pasted at Bello’s last known address and in prominent locations within the court premises.
Co-defendants and Charges
The two other defendants in the case are Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu. The arraignment of all three defendants, initially scheduled for Thursday, was delayed due to Bello’s absence.
Bottom Line
The public summons marks the latest development in the case against Yahaya Bello and his co-defendants, with the court set to resume proceedings on October 24. The charges, which involve alleged financial misconduct, underscore the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to pursue accountability in high-profile cases.
