Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has escalated his legal battle against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) by dragging the agency to the Supreme Court. This move comes after a recent ruling by the Court of Appeal, which ordered him to appear for arraignment regarding serious charges, including money laundering.
The Court of Appeal, sitting in Abuja, directed Bello to present himself before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court for arraignment, dismissing his previous claims of fundamental rights violations that had shielded him from prosecution. The court described the lower court’s decision as “scandalous” and emphasized that no court has the authority to obstruct law enforcement from executing its duties.
Bello faces 19 counts of charges related to money laundering amounting to over ₦80 billion alongside his nephew and others. Despite multiple attempts by the EFCC to arraign him, he has consistently refused to enter a plea.
In response to the recent developments, Bello’s legal team has filed an appeal with the Supreme Court, seeking to overturn the appellate court’s decision and halt his prosecution. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for both Bello and the EFCC as it navigates its mandate against corruption in Nigeria.
As this high-profile legal battle unfolds, all eyes will be on the Supreme Court to see how it addresses the complexities surrounding accountability and justice in Nigeria’s political landscape.
