The former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Michael Aondoakaa, has stated that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) cannot arrest ex-Governor Yahaya Bello without following the proper legal procedures.
In an interview on Arise Television, Aondoakaa emphasized the importance of the rule of law and urged the EFCC to adhere to the constitution and the enabling law. He stated that the only orders the EFCC should follow are those issued by the trial judge of the Kogi High Court, who has given directions on how to proceed with the arraignment of Yahaya Bello.
Aondoakaa pointed out that the EFCC made a fundamental error by including Bello in a charge relating to events that occurred before his tenure as governor. He explained that Bello had sought to enforce his fundamental human rights based on the flawed charge brought against him by the EFCC.
The former Attorney General highlighted the interlocutory order issued by the court, which restrained the EFCC from arresting Bello pending the hearing of the case. He also mentioned that the court had instructed the EFCC to file any additional charges against Bello in court instead of arresting him.
Aondoakaa emphasized that it is the court, not the EFCC, that has the authority to issue summons and arrest warrants. He advised the EFCC to follow the court’s directives and legal procedures, stating that Bello, like any other citizen, is subject to the law.
Referring to a recent judgment by Justice Modipwe, Aondoakaa highlighted that the court clarified that Bello should not be arrested or detained, but should instead be summoned to appear regarding the pending charge.
Article updated 2 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
