The Court of Appeal has delivered a landmark ruling, ordering former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to present himself for arraignment. This decision effectively overrides the earlier judgment delivered by the Kogi State High Court, which had granted Bello exemption from trial.
The Appeal Court’s ruling, made public today, restrains Bello from taking any further actions regarding the charges against him until he has been formally arraigned. This development marks a significant turn in the ongoing legal saga surrounding the former governor.
The court’s decision comes after a thorough examination of the case, with the judges concluding that Bello must face trial for the charges leveled against him. The specific charges against Bello were not disclosed in the ruling, but sources indicate that they relate to allegations of misconduct and abuse of office during his tenure as governor.
Bello’s lawyers had argued that their client was exempt from trial, citing an earlier court judgment. However, the Appeal Court rejected this argument, ruling that the former governor must face justice like any other citizen.
The ruling is seen as a victory for transparency and accountability in Nigeria, as it sends a strong message that no individual, regardless of their position or status, is above the law.
Bello’s arraignment is expected to take place soon, with the exact date and time to be announced by the court. The outcome of the trial will be closely watched by Nigerians, who are eager to see justice served.
