Alleged Fraud Case: Court Adjourns Suit Against Former Kogi Governor Bello to January 21

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the hearing in the alleged money laundering case against the immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, to January 21, 2025. The case, brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), resumed on Wednesday, with EFCC Counsel Kemi Pinheiro informing the court that two witnesses were present and ready to testify.

Pinheiro applied for the court to formally enter a plea of not guilty on behalf of Bello, despite his absence, arguing that this was fully compliant with Section 276 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. He emphasized that while Bello has the right to plead guilty or not guilty, this right can be waived, urging the court to recognize that Bello has effectively waived it. Pinheiro further explained that the court’s entry of a not-guilty plea would invite the prosecution to present evidence proving the veracity of the allegations.

However, counsel for the defense objected, stating that the EFCC’s application contradicted a standing order from the judge. The defense argued that no application could be entertained without the formal arraignment of the defendant. “The prosecution has repeatedly claimed that the court cannot demonstrate helplessness,” the defense counsel noted. “The court cannot display helplessness in any proceeding, and if any helplessness exists here, it is on the prosecution’s part.”