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| Ultimately, Yahaya Bello consents to present for arraignment on June 13 |
Abdulwahab Mohammed, the principal attorney for Bello, committed to this arrangement with Justice Emeka Nwite on Friday, following the court's dismissal of the defendant's plea to suspend the trial.
The ex-governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has ultimately consented to present himself at the Federal High Court in Abuja for his arraignment on June 13 regarding the corruption allegations he faces.
Abdulwahab Mohammed, the principal attorney for Bello, committed to this arrangement with Justice Emeka Nwite on Friday, following the court's dismissal of the defendant's plea to suspend the trial.
The lead counsel asserted that the ex-governor's reluctance to arraignment was not out of fear, but due to concerns for his safety under the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja.
He explained that his client has faced ongoing threats in Abuja, prompting him to seek refuge underground.
Justice Nwite's assurance that the EFCC, as a compliant institution, would adhere to legal standards, influenced the decision to agree to the court proceedings.
The judge noted that Bello is not the first ex-governor to be summoned by the anti-corruption agency and certainly won't be the last.
Furthermore, the judge stated that the accusations are merely allegations yet to be substantiated, reminding that the law presumes innocence until guilt is established.
He urged the senior attorney to encourage his client to abide by the court's law and order.
In response, Bello's lawyer expressed gratitude for the judge's guidance, stating that with the EFCC's commitment to proper conduct, he would ensure the ex-governor's court appearance.
"My client merely seeks a guarantee for his life's safety, which has been at risk for a while in Abuja," he mentioned.
The attorney asked for a four-week period to present his client in court.
With the lawyer's pledge and no objection from the EFCC's counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, Justice Nwite scheduled June 13 for Bello's court appearance to enter his plea.
