The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed fresh charges against former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, accusing him of fraud amounting to N110.4 billion. The 16-count charge, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, also names two other Kogi state officials, Abdulsalami Hudu and Umar Oricha, as co-defendants. These charges are in addition to ongoing money laundering allegations against Bello, involving N80.2 billion.
During a court session, the EFCC’s lead counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, expressed concerns over Bello’s conduct, stating that his recent appearance at the EFCC car park, rather than in court, violated previous court orders. Pinheiro emphasized that Bello had been instructed to appear for his arraignment but instead arrived at the EFCC premises accompanied by an individual with legal immunity. This, according to the EFCC, created a chaotic situation that could lead to disorder if not addressed.
Pinheiro also urged the court to impose sanctions on Bello’s counsel, A.M Agboyi, accusing him of turning the legal proceedings into an act of entertainment. He further requested that the court allow the trial to proceed in Bello’s absence, given the repeated delays. The EFCC has highlighted the seriousness of the charges and emphasized the need for the court to maintain order and discipline in handling the case.
After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Emeka Nwite expressed frustration over the ongoing delays, noting that the case had dragged on for over five months without progress. He reserved judgment on the counsel’s submissions and adjourned the matter to October 30, 2024, for arraignment and further ruling. Meanwhile, Bello remains under prosecution for 18 counts related to money laundering worth N80.2 billion.