Former Kogi State Governor ,Yahaya Bello has lost his attempt to transfer his N80.2 billion fraud case from Abuja to Kogi State.
Justice John Tsoho, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, dismissed Bello’s application on Monday.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) argued successfully that the case should remain in Abuja.
Bello is facing a 19-count charge of alleged money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds.
Despite denying the allegations, he has consistently failed to appear in court for his arraignment.
Bello’s lawyers had sought to transfer the trial to Lokoja, Kogi State. However, the EFCC opposed the move, stating that the alleged offenses were committed partly in both Kogi and Abuja, making either location suitable for the trial.
The Chief Judge, in a letter signed by his Special Assistant Joshua Ibrahim Aji, agreed with the EFCC, noting that the law permits the filing of charges in either Abuja or Lokoja. He also mentioned that two similar criminal charges are already being tried in the Federal High Court, Abuja, and transferring the case would be premature given the pending appeal.
