A Nigerian court has rejected a request by former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to move his N80.2 billion fraud trial from Abuja, the nation’s capital, to Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State. This decision comes amidst an ongoing legal battle between Bello and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which is prosecuting him for alleged financial misconduct.
Jurisdictional Arguments and Procedural Hurdles
The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, sided with the EFCC’s position in a letter dated July 2nd, 2024. The letter highlights that the alleged offenses occurred partly in both Abuja and Kogi State. This legal principle allows the case to be tried in either location.
Justice Tsoho further emphasized that similar charges against associates of Bello are already being tried in Abuja. These decisions, he argued, cannot be reversed through administrative means like a simple transfer request. Additionally, the letter acknowledges a pending appeal filed by Bello’s lawyers, seeking a case reassignment. Approving the transfer request at this stage, Justice Tsoho argues, could prejudice the outcome of the appeal.
The court, however, will address the specific issue of jurisdiction during a hearing scheduled for July 17th, 2024. This hearing will determine the appropriate venue for the trial based on legal arguments presented by both sides.
Tensions Flare as EFCC Pushes for Trial
Bello’s repeated absence from previous court dates has escalated tensions with the EFCC. The anti-graft agency has declared him wanted and, during a June 27th hearing, urged the court to hold Bello’s lawyer in contempt for failing to produce his client. This move reflects the EFCC’s determination to bring Bello to trial.
The court’s decision to reject the transfer request and schedule a hearing on jurisdiction paves the way for the trial to proceed in Abuja. However, the exact date for the trial’s commencement remains unclear. The outcome of the July 17th hearing and any potential appeals filed by either party could further delay the proceedings.
Impact on Kogi State and Public Perception
The allegations against Bello and the ongoing legal battle have generated significant public interest, particularly within Kogi State. The outcome of the case could have a significant impact on the state’s political landscape and public perception of Bello’s administration.
This situation also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the EFCC in its fight against corruption. While the agency has secured convictions in several high-profile cases, securing the presence of accused officials and navigating complex legal procedures can be significant hurdles.
Source: Punch
