Yahaya Bello, the troubled former Governor of Kogi State, has expressed his readiness to appear before the Federal High Court in Abuja to address the 19-count charge filed against him by the EFCC.
Though absent for his arraignment, Bello’s legal team assured the court of his willingness to attend but expressed concerns about potential arrest.
Bello’s lawyer, Adeola Adedipe, SAN, announced his client’s desire to participate in court proceedings but cited apprehension over a pending arrest order.
“The defendant wants to come to court but he is afraid that there is an order of arrest hanging on his head,” Vanguard quoted Adipe as saying.
Requesting the court to set aside the arrest order, he argued that Bello hadn’t been properly served with the charge at the time the warrant was issued.
Addressing the court, Bello’s legal counsel contested the legality of the EFCC, alleging a lack of consultation with states’ legislative bodies in enacting its establishment.
In response, EFCC’s lawyer urged the court to reject Bello’s application, emphasizing that the warrant should stand until his appearance.
Asserting that Bello’s absence was a delay tactic, EFCC emphasized the need for his physical presence before addressing any applications or objections.
However, EFCC offered to refrain from executing the arrest warrant if Bello’s counsel ensured his presence at the next hearing.
Highlighting the gravity of the charges, EFCC underscored the individual’s alleged misuse of public funds for personal gain, emphasizing the court’s jurisdiction over the matter.
Despite the legal wrangling, Bello’s willingness to face the court underscores a pivotal moment in his legal battle against the charges levied by the EFCC.
