The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has requested an adjournment in its case against Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, and two other defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu.
The proceedings have been postponed to November 14 and 20, 2024, to allow time for the first defendant, Yahaya Bello, to respond to a Public Summons.
Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, representing the EFCC, explained that the summons had been issued previously, and he expected Bello to appear in court on the new dates.
"The court issued a Public Summons against the 1st defendant directing that same be published," Oyedepo stated, emphasizing the need for the adjournment.
However, this request was met with opposition from the defense counsel. Joseph Daudu, SAN, representing the second defendant, argued against the delay, insisting that the session was meant for arraignment and that the defendants should be treated independently.
"You cannot be using somebody as a human shield when they are not in hostage. I don’t like this practice," Daudu remarked, highlighting concerns over procedural fairness.
A.M. Aliyu, SAN, representing the third defendant, supported Daudu's stance and suggested that the court consider his client's bail application if the adjournment were granted. Despite these objections, the judge decided to adjourn the hearing, allowing the defendants to formally submit written applications for bail.
Comentários