In a recent development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a scathing rebuke against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, reiterating its order for his arrest. The court, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, accused Bello of attempting to obstruct justice in a criminal case initiated against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Justice Nwite’s ruling, delivered on Friday, reaffirmed an earlier order made on April 17, directing law enforcement agencies to apprehend Bello and produce him before the court to answer to a 19-count charge. The court criticized Bello for hiring lawyers to challenge its jurisdiction while evading arrest, asserting that his actions demonstrated a lack of respect for the court.
Highlighting Bello’s refusal to comply with the court order and his attempts to evade trial, Justice Nwite emphasized that such behavior amounted to contempt of court. He cited Section 287 of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates all individuals and authorities to uphold court orders, noting that Bello’s deliberate defiance was an attempt to impede the judicial process.
The judge condemned Bello’s disregard for the court’s authority, stating that his actions were tantamount to taking the court for granted. Drawing from precedent, Justice Nwite emphasized that Bello’s conduct had been previously condemned by the Supreme Court
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In light of these findings, Justice Nwite ruled that no application could be considered or heard in Bello’s absence, emphasizing the necessity for his presence to enter a plea. Bello, who governed Kogi State for eight years, is facing charges related to alleged money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds amounting to approximately N80.2 billion.
Bello’s case serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, and attempts to undermine the judicial process will be met with stern repercussions.
Stay tuned for further updates as this legal saga unfolds.
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