N80bn Fraud Allegations: Court denies Yahaya Bello’s arrest warrant appeal

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has stood firm on ensuring accountability in the case involving former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, who faces allegations of fraud amounting to ₦80 billion by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

On April 23, the court-mandated the EFCC to serve Bello with the money laundering charges via his legal representative.

Justice Nwite emphasised the necessity for Bello’s presence in court, invoking Section 396 (2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, which mandates defendants to appear before filing any process.

Highlighting Bello’s disregard for previous court orders, Justice Nwite declared that no application from him would be entertained until he appeared in court.

Nwite added that even in the face of an allegedly illegal arrest warrant, Bello’s absence was deemed unacceptable.

Bello’s legal team, represented by Abdulwahab Mohammed, disclosed his intention to halt further proceedings until the Court of Appeal resolves a related case.

Mohammed pointed out that the appellate court had scheduled a hearing for May 20, underscoring the importance of awaiting its decision before proceeding.