Yahaya Bello Seeks To Clarify And Address Any Misunderstandings In Court

Yahaya Bello Seeks To Clarify And Address Any Misunderstandings In CourtFormer Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, on Friday expressed regret to Justice Emeka Nwite for his earlier absence from trial, explaining that his non-appearance was due to his decision to explore legal options challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear the charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Through his counsel, former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President J.B. Daudu, SAN, Bello addressed the court, saying, “I want to plead and correct any impression that may have been created that the defendant did not wish to appear for his arraignment. What he did, which is not unusual in law, was to instruct his counsel to challenge the jurisdiction of the court.”

Daudu emphasized that Bello’s actions were not intended as willful disrespect but were taken with the belief that he was defending himself appropriately. He assured the court, “He holds this court, and by extension, my lord, in very high regard. What happened was an incident that could have been avoided. It has passed, and we mean no harm to the court.”

The counsel also reassured the court that, despite the circumstances, Bello, who served two terms as governor of Kogi State and rarely traveled during his tenure, would be fully available for trial. “There should be no concern that he will abscond,” Daudu added.

EFCC’s counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, stated that while he had no objection to the defendant’s request for bail, he urged the court to set conditions that would ensure Bello’s attendance at future proceedings.

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