The Federal High Court in Abuja postponed the arraignment of Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi State, until June 27, 2024. This adjournment was decided during proceedings concerning a money laundering case brought against Bello by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Justice Emeka Nwite set the new date after discussions among legal representatives.
Bello’s lawyer, Adeola Adedipe, informed the court that both parties had met outside of court and agreed on the adjournment date, following a request from EFCC’s lead counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, due to scheduling conflicts. However, EFCC lawyer Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) contested this, stating he was unaware of any such agreement and emphasizing the need for procedural integrity.
Amid these discussions, senior lawyer Simon Lough intervened, suggesting that since Bello was absent with explanation, a new date should be set for the arraignment. He proposed that on the next hearing, the prosecution should clarify the circumstances leading to the adjournment.
Adedipe apologized for Bello’s non-appearance and requested the court to adjourn as per the agreed date. Justice Nwite subsequently adjourned the case to June 27, with an expectation that Bello would attend on that day.
