Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has been urged to appear in court on Wednesday in connection with an ₦80.2 billion money laundering case brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Bello has been locked in a legal battle with the EFCC regarding these serious fraud allegations. A source close to the commission emphasized that his appearance before the Federal High Court in Abuja is crucial for entering a formal plea.

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In a previous hearing, Justice Emeka Nwite ruled that the trial would continue, despite Bello’s pending appeal to the Court of Appeal. The case has been adjourned to September 25 for arraignment, and sources confirm this could be Bello’s final opportunity to respond to the 19-count charges.

Bello has missed five prior court dates, including scheduled appearances on April 18, April 23, May 10, June 13, and July 17. An arrest warrant was issued for him on April 17 due to his continued absence.