By Eseohe Solomon
Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, has upheld the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)’s stance against transferring the trial of former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello for alleged N80.2bn fraud from Abuja to Kogi State. In a letter dated July 2, Justice Tsoho’s Special Assistant, Joshua Aji, conveyed the decision, citing the EFCC’s argument that the case’s essence – involving funds allegedly diverted from Kogi to Abuja for property purchases – necessitates trial in Abuja.
Bello’s request, presented on June 10 through his lawyer Adeola Adedipe (SAN), sought relocation to Kogi State after concerns were raised following a June 13 court session. Adedipe highlighted Bello’s appeal for the case to be administratively moved to the Kogi judicial division under territorial jurisdiction.
However, EFCC’s prosecuting counsel, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), opposed the transfer and expressed displeasure over Bello’s absence during court proceedings, stressing the importance of his presence for arraignment.
In response, Justice Tsoho supported EFCC’s argument in his letter, noting that previous attempts to transfer related charges to Kogi had been denied by the court and were pending appeal.
The matter, involving significant jurisdictional considerations, remains slated for further judicial review, with Justice Nwite scheduling the next hearing for July 17.
