Court Adjourns Money Laundering Case Against Ex-Gov, Bello

Ogunsakin Mustapha
3 Min Read

The Federal Capital Territory High Court has adjourned the hearing in the money laundering case against former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, to April 3 and April 24. Justice Maryann Anenih made the decision after the prosecution called its first witness, Fabian Nworah, a property developer.

Prosecution Counsel Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, indicated that he had five witnesses ready to testify, but Justice Anenih could only accommodate one witness due to other court matters.

- Advertisement -
Ad image

The court also announced that it would not be sitting on Thursday as previously scheduled. Joseph Daudu, SAN, counsel for the 1st and 2nd defendants, raised concerns that the prosecution had not provided the defense with the statements on oath of the 2nd defendant. He emphasized the importance of having these statements to adequately prepare for cross-examination.

Daudu also objected to the prosecution’s witness, arguing that the defense had no prior knowledge of the witness. He stressed that legal proceedings should not be a “hide and seek” game and that the prosecution should provide the witness’s statements on oath in advance.

- Advertisement -
Ad image

Counsel for the 3rd defendant, Abubakar Aliyu, SAN, echoed these concerns, requesting the court to order the prosecution to provide the statements of the 2nd and 3rd defendants. Aliyu also applied for access to digital devices and forensic reports mentioned in the proof of evidence.

The prosecution, however, argued that the defense was attempting to delay the trial. Pinheiro stated that the proof of evidence had been served on the defendants on November 27, 2024, and that the law only requires the prosecution to provide documents requested by the defense.

Despite these arguments, Justice Anenih directed the prosecution to proceed with the case. The first witness, Fabian Nworah, testified about a property transaction involving Shehu Bello and EFAB Property Nigeria Limited. Nworah explained that Shehu Bello later returned the property documents and demanded a refund, claiming the property was under investigation by the EFCC. EFAB Property complied with the EFCC’s directive to refund the amount in two installments.

The case was adjourned for continuation of hearing on April 3 and April 24.

- Advertisement -
Ad image

Dear readers, we really need your support to keep on serving you with authoritative, truthful, and juicy stories everyday. For your support, please reach out to the editor @gavelinternational66@gmail.com

- Advertisement -
Ad image

Share This Article
error: Content is protected !!