The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has requested a hearing adjournment for its new charges against former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello and two co-defendants to November 14, 2024.
During the latest court session, EFCC Counsel Rotimi Oyedepo noted that the court had issued public summons against Bello, which needed to be published, while Judge Justice Maryann Anenih clarified that she only requested the summons to be published, not the charges.
Oyedepo anticipated Bello’s attendance on the new date, referencing the 30-day period for the summons. However, Joseph Daudu SAN, representing the second defendant, objected, asserting that the matter was ready for arraignment and that all defendants should be treated independently. “You cannot use someone as a human shield when they are not in hostage. I don’t like this practice,” Daudu stated.
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The counsel for the third defendant supported Daudu’s position, suggesting the court consider his client’s bail application. Oyedepo contended that bail could not be addressed as the charges involved a conspiracy, making it a joint matter. He emphasized the need to adjourn until November 14, mentioning an application regarding the second defendant’s fundamental rights that could not be addressed orally.
The second defendant’s counsel, Daudu, however, insisted that this negated the principles of fair hearing. “His argument is persuasive but does not go by what the law says. That until one individual appears before they can be arraigned. I don’t understand this kind of practice.”
Daudu countered that delaying the arraignment violated the principles of fair hearing. “Keeping them for 10 years will have no impact. They have enjoyed administrative bail with the EFCC, so it wouldn’t hurt their pride if they’re granted bail,” he argued.
Although the trial judge denied the oral bail application, she advised defendants to submit formal written applications. Justice Maryanne Anenih then adjourned the case to November 14 and 20 for responses to the summons and potential arraignment.
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