In a dramatic legal development, a Kogi High Court in Lokoja has issued a summons for the appearance of the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, following allegations of contempt of court.
The ruling was delivered by Justice I.A. Jamil of High Court IV in Suit No. HCL/68M/2024 and Motion No. HCL/190M/2024, initiated by former Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State.
The court's decision stemmed from an incident on April 17, when EFCC operatives reportedly besieged the residence of Alhaji Yahaya Bello, despite a court order restraining them from doing so pending the determination of a related motion.
In response to this alleged breach of court orders, Justice Jamil pronounced that the EFCC's actions amounted to contempt of court, as they contravened a valid and subsisting order.
The court's ruling was based on a motion ex-parte filed by Yahaya Bello through his legal representative, M.S. Yusuf. The motion sought an order to issue and serve Olukoyede with Form 49 Notice to show cause why an Order of Committal should not be made against him for contempt of court.
After considering the arguments presented by Bello's counsel and examining the exhibits attached to the written address, Justice Jamil granted the applicant's prayers. Consequently, Olukoyede was summoned to appear before the court to answer the contempt charge.
The judge emphasized the principle of "Audi Ultra Patem" (listen to the other side) in rendering the decision, highlighting the importance of fair hearing in legal proceedings.
The matter has been adjourned to May 13, providing Olukoyede with an opportunity to present his case before the court and address the allegations of contempt leveled against him.
This legal development underscores the ongoing legal battle between former Governor Yahaya Bello and the EFCC, adding another layer of complexity to the already contentious relationship between the two parties.
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