A High Court in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Maitama, has issued a public summons against Yahaya Bello, the immediate past governor of Kogi State, over his alleged involvement in a N110.4 billion fraud.
Justice Maryanne Anenih, presiding over the case, ordered the summons following a request by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The court has directed Bello to appear on October 24, 2024, to face a 16-count charge brought against him and two co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu. The charges include allegations of criminal breach of trust.
In her ruling on Thursday, Justice Anenih instructed the EFCC to publicize the summons in a widely circulated newspaper, as well as to paste copies at Bello’s last known address and in prominent locations within the court premises.
The EFCC, in its application, claimed it has been unable to personally serve the charges on Bello since they were filed on September 24.
His absence from court on Thursday had delayed the arraignment, which was initially scheduled for the same day.
Bello and his co-defendants are accused of misappropriating public funds during his tenure as governor, with the EFCC alleging a massive fraud scheme totaling N110.4 billion.
All eyes are now on the October 24 hearing as the court looks to proceed with the case.
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