The Federal High Court in Abuja strongly criticized the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, for attempting to derail the criminal case initiated against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a ruling delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite, the court reiterated its previous order from April 17, directing security agencies to arrest and produce Bello to answer to the 19-count charge pending against him.
The court condemned Bello’s decision to challenge its jurisdiction to try him through his lawyers while he remained in hiding, stating that it demonstrated his lack of respect for the court.
Justice Nwite emphasized that Bello’s actions showed his intention to avoid trial and evade justice.
The court maintained that Bello should have presented himself upon becoming aware of the arrest order issued against him.
According to Justice Nwite, Bello’s disobedience of the court order and disrespect for the court prevented him from receiving a favorable judgment.
The court cited Section 287 of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates all individuals and authorities to obey court orders. Bello’s refusal to comply with the court’s order constituted contempt of court, and he was not entitled to a favorable judgment.
The court criticized Bello for attempting to evade trial and making it difficult for the court to assume jurisdiction in the criminal case against him.
Justice Nwite stressed that Bello should have made himself available and not filed applications from the comfort of his home. The court concluded that Bello’s disregard for the court’s order had been condemned previously by the Supreme Court.
In light of these findings, Justice Nwite ruled that no application could be heard until Bello was present in court to enter his plea. Bello, who served as Kogi State governor for eight years, is facing charges related to his alleged involvement in money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds totaling approximately N80.2 billion.
