The arraignment of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello in an alleged money laundering case, brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has been rescheduled to June 27, 2024. This decision was reached following an agreement between the lawyers representing both parties at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Originally scheduled for today, June 13, 2024, the arraignment was postponed after Adeola Adedipe, counsel to Bello, informed the court that the EFCC's lawyers had indicated the date was inconvenient for them to proceed. It was mutually agreed during discussions that June 27 would be more suitable for the defendant to appear in court.

Adedipe expressed surprise at the prosecution team's stance, suggesting a breakdown in communication between EFCC lead counsel Kemi Phinhero and Rotimi Oyedepo, who appeared on behalf of the anti-graft agency. Oyedepo, however, stated he was unaware of any off-court meeting or agreement to adjourn Bello's arraignment to June 27.

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In response, Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned the case to June 27, noting the undertaking by Bello's lawyer that his client would be present in court on that day. The judge emphasized that agreements made outside the court should not override previous commitments.

Yahaya Bello served as Kogi State Governor from January 27, 2016, until January 27, 2024, when he handed over to Usman Ododo of the All-Progressives Congress (APC). On April 17, 2024, the EFCC attempted to arrest Bello at his Abuja residence, but he was allegedly whisked away by Ododo, prompting the EFCC to declare him wanted. Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, supported the EFCC's actions, urging Bello to surrender himself.

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