Ali Bello’s Trial: Court Rebukes EFCC, Adjourns to March 14

At the Federal High Court in Abuja, Justice James Omotoso has rebuked the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for their lackadaisical attitude in the trial of Ali Bello and Suleiman Daudu.

The court has now shifted the trial to March 14, 2024, with a warning to the anti-graft agency to be more diligent in the conduct of the trial.

The defendants, Ali Bello and Suleiman Daudu, are facing charges of money laundering to the tune of N10 billion.

They have pleaded not guilty to the charges and have been granted bail by Justice Omotoso.

During the hearing, Justice Omotoso also declined the request to transfer the trial to Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, stating that the Federal High Court in Nigeria is one and that the trial of any matter could be prosecuted in any of its divisions.

The judge further directed both the prosecution and the defense to be ready with all their witnesses and exhibits on the next trial date, March 14.

He warned that if the prosecution failed to do due diligence, he would not hesitate to close the charges against the defendants.

With an accelerated hearing granted, the trial is set to resume on March 14, 15, 20, and 21, and the court has directed the defendants to keep further objections against the trial to the final address stage.

This case highlights the importance of diligence and proper conduct in the legal process, and the court’s determination to ensure that justice is served.