The Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected a request by former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, to vacate an arrest warrant issued against him.
Justice Emeka Nwite dismissed the application, stating that Bello’s refusal to appear for arraignment in a criminal case initiated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission constituted contempt of court.
The Judge ruled that Bello, having disobeyed the court, was not entitled to any discretionary or favorable treatment, according to Daily Post.
The court held that Bello’s continued absence and attempt to dictate terms from the comfort of his own room was unacceptable.
Additionally, the court dismissed Bello’s claim that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction to hear the criminal charges against him.
Justice Nwite emphasized that Bello must first appear for arraignment and enter a plea before making any further applications or requests.
This ruling comes after Bello’s lead counsel, Abdulwahab Mohammed, accepted service of the criminal charges on his behalf in relation to an alleged N80 billion money laundering charge brought by the Federal Government on April 23.