Court Sets New Date for Yahaya Bello’s Arraignment Despite Appeal

The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled September 25, 2024, as the new date for the arraignment of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, despite an ongoing appeal at the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

Justice Emeka Nwite, presiding over the case, announced the new date following a ruling on an application by Bello’s counsel, Abdulwahab Mohammed, SAN.

Mohammed had requested a stay of proceedings due to an appeal against an arrest warrant and previous rulings issued by Justice Nwite.

During the session, Mohammed argued for halting proceedings until the appeal is resolved, citing relevant legal authorities and emphasizing constitutional supremacy over the EFCC Act.

Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, representing the EFCC, opposed the defence’s submission, asserting the absence of a Court of Appeal directive to stay proceedings and defending the court’s jurisdiction.

Justice Nwite deliberated on the matter, considering arguments from both sides, and ruled in favor of continuing with the arraignment proceedings on September 25, 2024.

The judge also addressed the withdrawal of Bello’s counsel, Adeola Adedipe, SAN, and referred allegations of misconduct to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee for investigation.

The case has stirred controversy amidst legal maneuvers and appeals, highlighting the complexities of jurisdiction and procedural fairness in high-profile trials.