The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the money laundering case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello until October 30, 2024. The adjournment was made after Bello’s legal team informed the court of their appeal to the Supreme Court, seeking to overturn an arrest warrant issued by the trial court on April 17.
During the hearing on Wednesday, Bello’s defense counsel, A.M. Adoyi, highlighted that the arraignment issue is part of an ongoing appeal at the Supreme Court, urging the trial court to await the higher court’s decision before proceeding.
EFCC’s counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, opposed the delay, accusing the defense of attempting to disrupt the court proceedings. He noted that a previous appeal challenging the mode of service was dismissed by the Court of Appeal on August 28, 2024. Pinheiro further emphasized the need for the court to assert its authority in the matter.
Justice Emeka Nwite, acknowledging the arguments, adjourned the case to October 30 for ruling and arraignment.
