Court Postpones Ruling on Yahaya Bello’s Request for International Travel

Recently, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has postponed the ruling on the application from former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello, which concerns the temporary release of his international passport. This release is sought for medical travel abroad. The ruling, initially scheduled for earlier, has now been set for July 17, 2025.

Bello, currently embroiled in allegations of misappropriating ₦110 billion, is undergoing prosecution by the Federal Government. His representation in court is spearheaded by Joseph Daudu, SAN, while Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, leads the prosecution team, supported by Chukwudi Enyebili, who also appears for the government.

Background of the Application

The motion, dated June 19 and submitted on June 20, calls for the court to authorize the release of Bello’s passport. This passport is currently held by the court as a part of his bail conditions. A detailed affidavit supporting this motion, composed of 22 paragraphs and submitted by Bello, includes a medical report and an appointment letter from his physician abroad.

Daudu argues that the request is grounded on thirteen legal grounds, pointing out that a previous ruling made in December 2024 indicated that should the defendant wish to travel, the court could be approached via a motion. He notes that the prior ruling did not prohibit Bello from international travel nor did it specify conditions under which such travel could occur.

Opposition from the Prosecution

On the other hand, the prosecution strongly opposes the application. Enyebili submitted a counter-affidavit consisting of 45 paragraphs, which argues that granting the application would abuse the court process. He highlights that Bello had previously submitted a similar request to the Federal High Court, which is still awaiting a ruling.

The prosecution contends that approaching two courts for the same relief at the same time undermines judicial integrity and poses risks of conflicting judgments.

Details from the Proceedings

“The passport being requested for release is not within the records of this court,” Enyebili remarked, adding that the Federal High Court’s earlier ruling takes precedence over the current proceedings.

Furthermore, the authenticity of the medical documentation has been called into question. Enyebili claimed that the medical report was not signed by the same physician who issued the appointment, providing no qualifications for the signing doctor, thereby labeling the documentation as “worthless.”

The prosecution suggested that Bello could receive necessary medical treatment within Kogi State, given that he initiated the construction of a modern Reference Hospital aimed at combating medical tourism.

Emphasizing the international implications of this case, the prosecution warned that permitting Bello to leave Nigeria might compromise the ongoing trial. They noted his prior watchlist status with Interpol, which the defense asserts was issued before his court appearances and is no longer valid.

Defense’s Counterarguments

In response, Daudu confirmed that the defense had adhered to all bail conditions, indicating that the sureties are cognizant of the travel plans. He stated that both the Federal High Court and FCT High Court can independently adjudicate such applications without legal contradiction.

After considering arguments from both parties, Justice Maryann Anenih chose to adjourn the matter, setting a new date for ruling on July 17. Yahaya Bello is implicated, alongside others, in purported mismanagement of public funds totaling 110 billion during his gubernatorial term.

Key Contextual Factors

• Related Cases: The links to other cases reflect the ongoing discussions about public responsibility in governance.
• Public Perception: How these judicial proceedings affect public trust and perception of leadership remains significant.
• Healthcare Discussions: The debate surrounding access to healthcare facilities is particularly pertinent in the context of political figures.

Ultimately, the upcoming rulings and decisions in the court could substantially inform and reshape public dialogues surrounding issues of accountability and governance within the region.

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In summary, the unfolding case involving Yahaya Bello underscores the intricate interplay of legal matters and public service. The decisions made in the coming months will likely deliver impactful precedents that resonate throughout the community, influencing both governance and citizens’ experiences in travel and transport. LocalsRide.com caters to the need for personalized transfers, uplifted by unparalleled transparency and service quality, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking secure and efficient transport services.