Justice Maryann Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, on Thursday adjourned the arraignment of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to November 27, 2024, regarding fresh 16-count charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Bello, alongside two others, Shuabu Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, faces charges relating to criminal breach of trust and conspiracy to commit an offence totalling N110.4 billion.
At the resumed hearing, EFCC counsel Jamiu Agoro requested an adjournment to ensure Bello’s presence in court for arraignment, as the court’s order, issued on October 3, had not yet expired.
According to the prosecution, the 30-day window provided by the court for summons was still active.It should be recalled that the court had issued a public summons for Bello to appear and respond to the 16 charges against him. Justice Anenih ordered the summons to be published in a widely circulated newspaper and pasted at Bello’s last known address, as well as in prominent locations within the court premises.
Agoro further requested the court extend the time for Bello’s appearance and sought permission to post a hearing notice at his last known address.