A Federal High High Court sitting in Abuja, has issued a public summons against former Kogi State Governor, Mr Yahaya Bello, ordering him to appear in court on October 24 to face a 16-count charge of alleged fraud.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) filed the charges against Bello and two others, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, alleging criminal breach of trust to the tune of N110.4 billion.
The presiding judge, Justice Maryanne Anenih issued the public summons following an application from the anti-graft agency, citing inability to serve Bello with the charges.
In her ruling, Justice Anenih ordered the commission to publish the summons in a widely circulated newspaper and to post copies at Bello’s last known address, as well as in prominent areas within the court premises.
Meanwhile, Bello’s absence from the previously scheduled arraignment on Thursday led to a delay in the proceedings.
The court’s decision to issue a public summons however, underscores the seriousness of the charges and the urgency of bringing the defendants to justice.