Just In: VCR Urges Yahaya-Bello To Attend Court Over N80.2-Billion Fraud Allegations (View Details)

Just In: VCR Urges Yahaya-Bello To Attend Court Over N80.2-Billion Fraud Allegations (View Details)

As the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) resumes its N80.2 billion fraud case against former Kogi State governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, the Abuja-based civil group Vanguard for Credible Representation (VCR) has called for his compliance with the court’s directives to appear and defend himself.

A Federal High Court in Abuja recently granted the EFCC’s request for Bello to appear in court for his trial. Despite Bello filing an application to vacate the arrest warrant issued against him, Justice Emeka Nwite has ruled that Bello must first appear in court before any such application can be considered.

The case has now been adjourned to June 13, 2024.

Justice Emeka Nwite emphasized the importance of Bello’s appearance, asserting that even if the arrest warrant was irregularly obtained, Bello should have respected the court’s order. The judge highlighted that Bello’s absence amounted to a disregard for the court’s authority.

Bello’s lawyer, Abdulwahab Mohammed (SAN), assured the court of efforts to contact the former governor and ensure his appearance on the next adjourned date.

In a statement, VCR coordinator Akinloye Oyeniyi expressed concern over the delays and controversies surrounding the case, urging Bello to seize the opportunity on June 13 to appear and address the allegations against him directly.

“We join other Nigerians and groups in calling on Alhaji Yahaya Bello to appear before the court and clarify his stance. This issue should not be handled through media sensationalism but through legal proceedings to uphold the integrity of our judiciary,” Oyeniyi emphasized.

The group emphasized the significance of Bello’s court appearance in resolving the allegations and restoring confidence in the judicial process.