Ex-Governor Yahaya Bello Seeks Court to Vacate Arrest Warrant, Adjourn Case Indefinitely, and Return Case File to CJ

The legal battle surrounding the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, took a new turn as he seeks to vacate an arrest warrant issued against him and adjourn his case indefinitely. Bello faces charges of allegedly laundering N80 billion, brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Scheduled for arraignment on Wednesday, Bello’s legal team, led by Musa Yakubu (SAN), has appealed to Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja to halt proceedings. They argue that the trial judge has shown a miscarriage of justice and request the case file be returned to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court for reassignment.

The appeal, filed under Appeal No. CA/ABJ/CR/535/2024, challenges the April 17, 2024 arrest warrant. Bello’s counsel contends the warrant was illegally issued and seeks its nullification. Additionally, they demand the suspension of any proceedings until the Court of Appeal rules on the matter.

The defense’s letter, dated July 12, 2024, highlights procedural violations and urges the court to set aside previous decisions and defer to the appellate process. This request comes in response to an EFCC application, dated July 8, 2024, seeking to enforce the arrest warrant through various security agencies.

Citing legal precedents and procedural rules, Bello’s counsel argues that once an appeal is entered, the lower court loses jurisdiction over the case. They warn against any actions that might conflict with the Court of Appeal’s jurisdiction.

The controversy deepens with parallels drawn to a similar case in Lagos State, where proceedings were halted following an appeal against an arrest warrant. Bello’s legal team insists the same principles should apply to ensure judicial consistency.