The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is facing hurdles in its attempt to arraign former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello over alleged money laundering charges.
According to reporters, despite a scheduled court appearance on Thursday, Bello was absent, prompting concerns from the EFCC’s legal counsel, Kemi Pinheiro.
Pinheiro lamented Bello’s evasion, attributing it to someone with immunity whisking him away in an official vehicle, hindering his arrest.
Pinheiro hinted at the possibility of seeking military assistance to locate Bello for arraignment.
Bello’s legal defence argued that he had obtained an ex parte order from a High Court, restraining the EFCC from arresting and prosecuting him.
However, the EFCC has appealed against this order at the Court of Appeal.
In a separate development, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja granted the EFCC permission to arrest Bello, emphasising the legal authorization behind the action.
The EFCC had initially planned to arraign Bello on allegations of N80.2 billion in money laundering but faced resistance during their attempt to execute the warrant of arrest against him.
With the EFCC exploring various avenues to ensure Bello’s appearance in court, including potential military involvement, the case has garnered attention for its implications on accountability and the rule of law.
Despite the challenges faced by the EFCC, including legal obstacles and resistance during arrest attempts, the agency remains determined to pursue the case against Bello.
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