In a recent development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled September 25 for the arraignment of former Kogi Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, despite ongoing proceedings at the Court of Appeal. This decision was made by Justice Emeka Nwite after considering arguments from both sides regarding a stay of proceedings.
Bello’s counsel, Abdulwahab Mohammed, SAN, had requested the court to halt the proceedings pending the outcome of their appeal at the Court of Appeal. Mohammed argued that proceeding with the case would undermine the pending appeal’s jurisdictional issues, citing legal precedents and emphasizing the need for judicial prudence.
On the other hand, counsel for the EFCC, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, opposed the stay of proceedings, arguing that the defendant had not presented sufficient evidence from the Court of Appeal indicating a stay was necessary. Pinheiro urged the court to proceed with its scheduled rulings and maintain continuity in the case.
Justice Nwite deliberated on these arguments, acknowledging the discretion of the court in granting stays of proceedings but ultimately ruled against staying the case. He expressed concerns about potential delays caused by the appeal and emphasized the need to avoid unnecessary prolongation of legal processes.
Additionally, Justice Nwite granted the withdrawal of Bello’s former counsel, Adeola Adedipe, SAN, from the case and referred allegations of misconduct against Adedipe to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee for investigation.
The court’s decision to proceed with the arraignment on September 25 underscores its stance on the matter, setting the stage for further legal proceedings in this high-profile case.