News
UPDATED: Yahaya Bello: Justice Anenih Reserves Ruling on Bail Application Until December 10
Justice Maryann Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory High Court has scheduled December 10, 2024, to deliver rulings on bail applications filed by former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and two co-defendants.
This decision followed arguments presented by Bello’s counsel, Joseph Bodunde Dauda (SAN), and opposing submissions by EFCC counsel, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), during Wednesday’s proceedings.
Bello and his co-defendants pleaded not guilty to a 16-count charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The former governor categorically denied the allegations as they were read out by the court registrar.
After their pleas, Bello’s lawyer moved a motion for bail, arguing that the application, filed on November 22, was supported by an affidavit and written address. Dauda cited the defendant’s appearance in court as evidence of respect for the law.
However, Pinheiro objected, asserting that the earlier bail application had lapsed in October. Pinheiro argued further that Bello’s refusal to appear in another pending case at the Federal High Court raised concerns.
Dauda countered, emphasizing that issues from another court should not influence the present case. He invoked the constitutional presumption of innocence, insisting that Bello was entitled to liberty while preparing for trial.
The EFCC pushed for immediate trial commencement, stating its readiness to call witnesses, but Bello’s counsel requested more time, noting that they had only been served with the charge on November 26.
For the second defendant, the EFCC raised concerns about the likelihood of reoffending, given his role as Director-General of the Kogi State Government House. The defense dismissed these claims, arguing that no evidence supported allegations of habitual misconduct.
Justice Anenih adjourned her ruling on the bail applications to December 10. In the interim, the court ordered the defendants to remain in EFCC custody.
Meanwhile, Umar Shoaib Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, earlier admitted to administrative bail, were present in court alongside Bello for the first time.
A joint security operation against terrorists has led to the rescue of nine persons in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.
According to inside sources, Forest Guards, under the supervision of the Directorate of Security Services and working with members of the local hunters and vigilante group, embarked on bush-combing operations. They discovered a hideout of the kidnappers and engaged them.
Nine persons were rescued in two separate operations in the forest of Obbo Aiyegunle. One of the kidnappers was neutralised while others fled with gunshot injuries.
One of the rescued persons is said to be receiving medical care at an undisclosed medical facility in the local government.
News
Zamfara LG Chairman Abduction: Security operatives intensify rescue efforts
Security forces are currently conducting deliberate operations at the suspected location of the terrorists, aimed at safely rescuing the abducted Chairman.
• Family of the abducted Zamfara LG Chairman
Aliyu Danjal, Lieutenant Colonel Media Information Officer Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, disclosed that on hearing gunshots, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA responded immediately and swiftly moved to the scene where they engaged in hot pursuit of the terrorists leading to a fierce exchange of fire.
News
IGP Disu orders officers to shoot anyone carrying illegal firearms
Disu explained that the directive was backed by Force Order 237, which empowers police officers to respond immediately to armed threats without waiting for approval from superior officers.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed police officers across the country to shoot on sight anyone found carrying illegal firearms, as part of intensified efforts to curb insecurity.
Disu issued the directive on Friday during a stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, saying the move followed President Bola Tinubu’s instruction that the lingering security crisis in the state must be brought to an end.
The police chief maintained that only authorised security personnel are legally permitted to carry firearms, warning that law enforcement agencies would no longer tolerate the unlawful possession of weapons.
” You cannot move around freely carrying arms as if there is no law and order in this country. It will not be tolerated,” he said.
Disu explained that the directive was backed by Force Order 237, which empowers police officers to respond immediately to armed threats without waiting for approval from superior officers.
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