The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has requested an adjournment in its ongoing case against former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, noting that the 30-day period for the court summons remains active.
The EFCC granted administrative bail to Bello’s co-accused, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, while asking the court for more time for the former governor’s appearance.
At the Federal High Court in Abuja, EFCC counsel Jamiu Agoro informed Justice Maryann Anenih that the 30-day court order issued on October 3 had not yet expired. “Given that the timeframe is still running, it is premature to proceed. We have agreed to reconvene on November 27, my lord,” Agoro said.
He also pointed out that the initial hearing date of November 20 was not convenient for the prosecution team.
Aliyu Saiki, SAN, counsel for the second defendant, confirmed that his client had been released on administrative bail and did not object to the adjournment. ZE Abass, representing the third defendant, also supported the request.
The prosecution further asked for permission to serve the hearing notice at the last known address of the first defendant.
After hearing from all parties, Justice Anenih approved the EFCC’s request for an adjournment and granted the application for a hearing notice. “I have reviewed the request for adjournment and the responses from the defendants’ counsel. The request is granted,” she ruled.
The court has set a new date of November 27 for the arraignment.
Yahaya Bello, along with co-defendants Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, is facing a fresh 16-count charge filed by the EFCC, where they are listed as the first, second, and third defendants, respectively.
