EFCC Withdraws Appeal Case Against Yahaha Bello

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has withdrawn its appeal against a Kogi High Court order restraining the agency from arresting Yahaya Bello, the former governor of the state.

EFCC’s withdrawal was filed on April 22 and is based on the fact that events have overtaken the appeal.

It also acknowledged that the appeal was filed out of the time allowed by law.

The notice filed on April 22, and signed by its counsel, J S Okutepa, SAN read:

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“The orders made ex parte by Jamil on the Feb 9, 2024 in the said suit which is the subject of this appeal, was made to last pending the hearing and determination of the originating motion on notice which was finally determined by Jamil J. on the April 17, 2024.

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“Furthermore, the notice of appeal was filed out of time and we, therefore, pray that the appeal be struck out for being filed out of time and incompetent.”

On February 8, Bello initiated a fundamental rights enforcement suit, seeking a declaration that the EFCC’s actions—such as harassment, threats of arrest, and negative press releases—were politically motivated and interfered with his rights to liberty, freedom of movement, and fair hearing.

He also requested an order to prevent further harassment or detention by the EFCC.