Newsone Nigeria reports that the former governor of Kogi State, north-central Nigeria, Yahaya Bello, has agreed to appear before the Federal High Court in Abuja on June 13 to face corruption charges but only if his condition is met.
This online news platform understands that Abdulwahab Mohammed, Yahaya Bello’s lead counsel, assured Justice Emeka Nwite of this decision after the court rejected a request to suspend the trial as he said the ex-Governor only wanted an assurance that he’d be safe from harm.
Mohammed explained that Bello was not avoiding arraignment but was concerned about his safety in the hands of the EFCC in Abuja. He cited consistent threats to Bello’s life as the reason for his temporary absence.
The presiding judge, Justice Nwite said that the EFCC operates within the law and urged Bello to respect the legal process. He added that allegations must be proven, and every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Acknowledging the court’s stance, Mohammed thanked the judge and stated that Bello would comply, given assurance of his safety. He requested four weeks to ensure Bello’s appearance.
Newsone reports that Justice Nwite with no objection from the EFCC’s counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), set June 13 as the date for Bello’s arraignment.