The Federal High Court in Abuja has slammed the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, accusing him of attempting to truncate the criminal case initiated against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The ruling, delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite on Friday, reiterated the court’s directive issued on April 17, which instructed security agencies to arrest and produce Bello before it to face the 19-count charge pending against him.
News About Nigeria reports that the court expressed strong disapproval of Bello’s actions, particularly his decision to challenge its jurisdiction to try him through his lawyers while evading arrest.
Justice Nwite said that Bello’s conduct demonstrated a lack of respect and regard for the court.
According to the court, Bello’s move to file legal applications while in hiding indicated his unwillingness to present himself for trial, contrary to the court’s orders.
Justice Nwite said that, upon being aware of the arrest order, Bello should have made himself available to comply with the court’s directives.
“The law is settled that he who disobeys an order of the court and shows disrespect to the court cannot expect a favourable discretion of the court,” Justice Nwite stated.
Citing Section 287 of the 1999 Constitution, Justice Nwite noted that the obligation of all individuals and authorities is to adhere to court orders.
He criticised Bello for willfully disobeying the court’s order, noting that regardless of how the order was obtained, it remained valid until set aside.
“Section 287 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, mandates all persons and authorities to give effect to orders of court.
“He has wilfully disobeyed the order of this court. An order of court of competent jurisdiction, no matter how it was obtained, subsists until it is set aside.”
