In a recent development, former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has petitioned the Federal High Court in Abuja to transfer his ongoing criminal case to Kogi State. Bello’s legal counsel, Adeola Adedipe, argued that since the alleged offence was committed in Kogi, it is appropriate for the case to be tried in the state.
On Thursday, the court heard Bello’s application, which is the latest development in the high-profile case. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had charged Bello with fraud amounting to N80.2 billion. The EFCC alleges that Bello engaged in fraudulent activities during his tenure as governor.
Bello’s legal team contends that the case should be heard in Kogi State, where the alleged crimes were committed. The transfer of the case would ensure that witnesses and evidence are more readily available, facilitating a fair trial.
The court’s decision on the transfer application is pending. If granted, the case would be heard in Kogi State, potentially impacting the trajectory of the trial.
