EFCC Confronts Yahaya Bello’s Court Absence

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has expressed frustration over the absence of former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello, from court proceedings. On Wednesday, September 25, 2024, lead prosecution counsel Kemi Pinheiro SAN told Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja that Bello’s recent visit to the EFCC parking lot, instead of appearing in court, was out of line. The court and the Court of Appeal had both ordered Bello to present himself for arraignment in relation to an N80.2 billion money laundering case.

Pinheiro emphasized that the trial court and the Court of Appeal clearly directed Bello to appear for arraignment, not to show up at the EFCC car park. He criticized the former governor for arriving with an individual who holds immunity, raising concerns about potential disruptions if an arrest attempt were made.

“There is nowhere my Lordship or the Court of Appeal ordered that Yahaya Bello present himself at the EFCC car park,” Pinheiro said, noting the defendant’s actions raised serious concerns. He added, “We wrote to the defendant’s lawyers, reminding them that arraignment is to be held in court, not in the EFCC car park.”

The EFCC’s counsel urged the judge to exercise authority over the defense, accusing Bello’s team of turning the court into a “vaudeville” — a place of entertainment rather than serious legal business. Pinheiro requested the court sanction Bello’s counsel, A.M. Agboyi, and refer him to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC).

Pinheiro expressed disappointment over the defense’s conduct, saying, “This court is not a vaudeville. No party should make a court a place of entertainment.” He further asked for permission to proceed with Bello’s trial in absentia, given the repeated delays in his arraignment.

After hearing submissions from both sides, Justice Nwite remarked that the case seemed to have stalled, stating, “It seems it has gone back to square one.” The judge, however, reserved his ruling and adjourned the matter until October 30, 2024, for arraignment and further proceedings.

The EFCC has charged Yahaya Bello with 18 counts of money laundering, totaling N80.2 billion, as the agency continues its efforts to bring him to trial.