Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed the hearing of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) case against former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to June 26, 27, and July 4 and 5.
The adjournment follows legal arguments over the prosecution’s attempt to cross-examine the third witness, Nicholas Ojehomon, and for continuation of the trial.
During the session, Ojehomon, an internal auditor at the American International School Abuja, was cross-examined by the defence.
He confirmed testifying in other cases about school fees paid by the Bello family but could not specify the courts. He stressed that he had made no negative statements against Yahaya Bello in previous or current testimonies.
Following the defence’s cross-examination, EFCC counsel Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, sought to cross-examine the same witness regarding Exhibit 19.
He argued that it was a matter of fair hearing under Section 36 of the Constitution. However, the defence lawyer, Joseph Daudu, SAN, opposed the move, saying such a procedure was not supported by the Evidence Act.
Justice Nwite declined the cross-examination and allowed Pinheiro to re-examine the witness instead. Yet, as the line of questioning appeared to mirror a cross-examination, the judge halted the session and asked both parties to formally address the legal issue.
Daudu maintained that the prosecution’s approach was unconventional and unsupported by law, describing it as a “strange and unknown procedure.” Pinheiro, however, argued that precedent exists, citing the Supreme Court’s position in Amobi v. Amobi, and emphasized the need for equal treatment under the law.
Following these exchanges, the court scheduled further proceedings for late June and early July.
What you should know
Former Governor Yahaya Bello is facing legal proceedings initiated by the EFCC. The case has now been adjourned for rulings and continuation after courtroom disputes over witness examination procedures.
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