By Ayomide Otitoju
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has requested a postponement in its case against Yahaya Bello, the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, citing an active 30-day summons window for his court appearance. This request was made on Thursday during a hearing before Justice Maryann Anenih at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja.
The EFCC has granted administrative bail to Bello’s co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, and asked the court to extend the timeline for Bello to appear in court. EFCC counsel, Jamiu Agoro, explained that the summons issued on October 3rd is still within the 30-day period, noting that proceeding with the case at this stage would be premature. Agoro proposed a new hearing date of November 27, 2024, a date agreed upon by all parties after the original date of November 20 proved inconvenient for the prosecution.
Counsel for the second defendant, Aliyu Saiki, SAN, confirmed that his client had no objections to the adjournment, while the third defendant’s counsel, ZE Abass, also agreed. Additionally, the prosecution sought permission to serve the hearing notice at Bello’s last known address.
Justice Anenih approved the EFCC’s request for adjournment and notice issuance, stating, “The application is granted.” The case has been rescheduled for November 27th, when the defendants are expected to be arraigned on a fresh 16-count charge brought against them by the EFCC.
