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Court adjourns Yahaya Bello’s arraignment as parties await decision on transfer of case

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In a recent development at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the arraignment of Yahaya Bello, the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, on charges of alleged money laundering has been adjourned to July 17, 2024. This adjournment follows discussions regarding the potential transfer of the case to the Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, based on Section 45 of the Federal High Court Establishment Act.

Here are the key points from the proceedings:

  1. Application for Transfer: Yahaya Bello’s lawyer, Adeola Adedipe, SAN, informed the court about an application before the Chief Judge for the transfer of the case (FHC/ABJ/CR/98/2024) to the Federal High Court in Lokoja. This application was made due to the territorial jurisdiction where the alleged offences were said to have occurred during Bello’s tenure as Governor of Kogi State.
  2. Court’s Response: The court considered the application for transfer but also noted the objection from the prosecution, represented by EFCC counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN. The EFCC argued that the matter should proceed with the arraignment as scheduled, emphasizing that the application for transfer did not discharge the defendant’s undertaking to appear in court.
  3. Legal Arguments: Adeola Adedipe explained that his accidental appearance at the last hearing was due to miscommunication regarding representation. He highlighted the administrative process initiated by the Chief Judge to consider the transfer request and argued that the matter now rested with the judicial decision-making process.
  4. Contempt Concerns: The EFCC counsel expressed dissatisfaction with the delay caused by the application for transfer, hinting at potential contempt proceedings against Bello’s legal team for failing to produce the defendant despite earlier assurances.
  5. Outcome and Adjournment: After deliberations, Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned the case to July 17, 2024, for ruling on the application for transfer and for the arraignment of Yahaya Bello, depending on the court’s decision regarding jurisdiction.

The case underscores ongoing legal maneuvers and procedural challenges typical in high-profile criminal proceedings, highlighting the intersection of legal technicalities and the pursuit of justice.

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JUST IN: Wike, Govs Makinde, Bala Clash at PDP Secretariat (Images / Video)

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….. As PDP Leaders Accuse Police of Not Showing Neutrality in Crisis

There was a showdown at the PDP National Secretariat on Tuesday as governors of Bauchi and Oyo states have clashed with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike with both parties attempting to take over the National secretariat of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party in the Wuse Zone 5 District of Abuja.

It was discovered that security operatives loyal to the FCT Minister and Governors Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed embarked in a free for all or who would take possession of the PDP National Secretariat with a rainfall of teargas pumped around the vicinity by both parties.

While Governor Seyo stormed the venue with the newly elected National Secretary, Taofeek Arapaja, Nyesom Wike stayed put with Samuel Anyanwu, the embattled National Secretary of the party who insists his tenure is still in place till December 8, 2025.

Party leaders are now expressing worry over the development accusing the Police of not being neutral in the leadership crisis facing the Peoples Democratic Party.

Watch video below:

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Lagos N200b bond oversubscribed by 55% at N310Billion

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In a resounding vote of confidence from the investment community, Lagos State has concluded its bookbuild for a groundbreaking bond issuance, exceeding all expectations and demonstrating strong investor appetite.

The State’s offering, comprised of a ₦200 Billion Conventional Bond and a ₦14.8 Billion Green Bond, has been met with extraordinary enthusiasm, paving the way for crucial infrastructure projects across the bustling metropolis.

The conventional bond, originally slated for ₦200 billion, received an astounding 55% oversubscription, attracting a remarkable ₦310 billion in investment commitments.

This signifies the robust trust investors have in Lagos State’s economic prospects and its commitment to sustainable growth.

Adding to the success, the ₦14.8 billion Green Bond, designed to finance environmentally friendly projects, was met with an even greater level of enthusiasm.

It attracted a phenomenal ₦29.29 billion in subscriptions, representing a staggering 97.7% oversubscription.

This underscores the growing global interest in sustainable investments and Lagos State’s commitment to a greener future.

This historic achievement highlights Lagos State’s financial strength and its ability to attract significant investment to drive its ambitious development agenda.

The proceeds from these bonds will be instrumental in funding vital infrastructure projects, enhancing the quality of life for residents, and fostering economic prosperity across the state.

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JUST IN: FG Vows Swift Rescue of Abducted Kebbi Schoolgirls, Reaffirms Duty to Protect Citizens

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The Federal Government has expressed deep concern over the abduction of female students from Government Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, assuring families of its unwavering commitment to securing the safe return of the victims.

In a statement on Monday, the government conveyed solidarity with the affected families, noting that it “shares in their pain” and is working urgently to bring the girls home.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reaffirmed that the protection of every Nigerian—especially schoolchildren—remains a paramount responsibility of the State. He condemned the attack, describing it as a “reprehensible assault on innocent students,” and mourned the school officials who were killed while performing their duties.

According to the statement, security and intelligence agencies have been issued strict directives to locate and rescue the abducted students and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. The government pledged that it will not relent until the mission is accomplished.

The Federal Government also assured citizens that strengthening internal security remains a top priority, noting that efforts are underway to recalibrate the country’s military, policing, and intelligence architecture to better prevent and respond to threats.

Additionally, Nigeria is intensifying regional cooperation with ECOWAS, the African Union, and the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) to secure borders and disrupt terrorist and criminal networks.

The government urged the public to remain calm and confident as efforts to rescue the abducted students continue.

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