Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello took charge of a chaotic scene at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court on Wednesday after Justice Maryann Anenih abruptly left the courtroom.
The judge, who was set to preside over Bello’s arraignment alongside two others, expressed frustration with the unruly crowd and announced she would not continue until order was restored.
Justice Anenih had been preparing to hear the 16-count charges brought against Bello when the courtroom became overcrowded with the former governor’s supporters and sympathizers. Upset by the lack of decorum, the judge stood up, declared the session suspended, and exited the courtroom.
In an unexpected move, Bello rose from his seat at the front of the courtroom and addressed the crowd. Taking control of the situation, he instructed his supporters to leave the courtroom immediately. His firm yet calm approach diffused the tension, as attendees quietly complied with his directives.
To further ensure peace, Bello positioned himself near the courtroom entrance, monitoring the exit process and making sure no one disobeyed the judge’s order. His actions helped restore order, allowing the legal proceedings to potentially resume without further disruptions.
The federal government’s legal team for the arraignment was led by Kemi Pinheiro SAN, while Bello’s defense was headed by Joseph Bodunde Dauda SAN. Despite the dramatic start, both sides appeared ready to proceed once normalcy returned to the court.
