There was drama at the Federal Capital Territory High Court as presiding judge Justice Maryann Anenih staged a walk out the courtroom as supporters of former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello created a rancorous scene.
Mr. Bello was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commision on a 16-count fraud and money laundering charge and his followers wouldn’t allow proceeding to commence thereby annoying the presiding judge.
However, Mr. Bello intervened urging his followers to vacate the seats they had occupied. He later pleaded not guilty to the charges after Justice Maryann Anenih regained control of her courtroom.
Mr. Bello’s defence counsel, Joseph Daudu, moved an application for bail for ex-Kogi governor, but the counsel to the anti-graft agency, Kemi Pinheiro, opposed it, saying that it had already expired since October.
The defence counsel said Mr. Bello’s bail application was filed on November 22 and was also supported with a written address, adding that “Exhibit A, which is the public summons, is very vital and the appearance of the defendant in Court today, shows he has respect for the law.”
Mr. Dauda added, “The prosecution’s objection is based on the fact that he is facing charges at the Federal High Court and has refused to appear to take his plea. The court should not use issues from another court to determine issues before the FCT High Court.”
Ruling on the bail application Justice Maryann Anenih ordered that Mr. Bello be remanded in EFCC custody till December 10 when she would decide on the case.
