Alhaji Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, finds himself in hot water as the Federal High Court in Abuja has accused him of attempting to thwart criminal prosecution initiated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a ruling delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite on Friday, the court reiterated its directive issued on April 17, ordering security agencies to apprehend and present Bello before it to answer to a 19-count charge pending against him.
The court expressed dismay over Bello's decision to challenge its jurisdiction while evading arrest, deeming it a blatant display of disrespect for the judicial process. Justice Nwite emphasized that Bello's failure to comply with the court's order to appear for trial demonstrated a lack of regard for the judiciary.
Quoting legal precedents, Justice Nwite underscored that defiance of a court order constitutes contempt of court, and individuals who disobey court orders forfeit the right to seek favorable treatment from the court. Bello's refusal to present himself for trial, the judge argued, was a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice and undermine the authority of the court.
Justice Nwite condemned Bello's disregard for the court's authority, emphasizing that his actions were tantamount to taking the court for granted. Citing constitutional provisions, the judge stressed that all parties are obligated to comply with court orders, and any attempt to evade justice would not be tolerated.
Highlighting the seriousness of Bello's actions, Justice Nwite reiterated that the court could not entertain any applications in Bello's absence, emphasizing the importance of his presence for plea-taking.
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