Ayuba Sanusi
JUSTICE Maryanne Anenih of a Federal Capital Territory (FCT,), Abuja High Court sitting in Maitama, yesterday (Thursday, 24 October 2024) dismissed oral bail applications of Abdulsalam Hudu and Umar Oricho, who are co-defendants with the former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, in a N110.4 billion alleged fraud case, preferred against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
While defence counsel J.B. Daudu (SAN) and A.M. Aliyu (SAN), representing Hudu and Oricho, respectively, argued that their clients were due for release from the holding facility of the Commission, prosecution counsel Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) opposed their release based on mere oral applications.
Justice Anenih upheld the prosecution’s objection, stating that the bail applications should be made in writing. “You must come formally,” she said, emphasizing the importance of following proper legal procedures.
Hudu and Oricho were arraigned on the 3rd of October 2024 before Justice Anenih and were remanded in the EFCC’s custody.
Oyedepo, during Thursday’s proceedings, informed the court that the EFCC had complied with its earlier order that the Commission should publish a public summons against Yahaya Bello in a national newspaper as the former governor continues to dishonour court rulings for his appearance for arraignment. “We have complied with the court order and have filed an affidavit of compliance,” he said.
It will be recalled that on 3 October 2024, the court issued a public summon against Yahaya Bello following his refusal to make court appearances for his arraignment on new16-count charges of fraud to the tune of N110.4 billion filed against him by the EFCC.
Justice Anenih adjourned the case until 14 and 20 November 2024 for Yahaya Bello’s arraignment.
Eighteen-Eleven Media