ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The National President of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, Bello Bodejo, has been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations of money laundering involving $2.63 million and terrorism financing.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) brought the 12-count charge against the Miyetti Allah leader, accusing him of offences bordering on money laundering and financing activities linked to terrorism.
When the matter came up before Justice Inyang Ekwo on Wednesday, EFCC counsel, Wahab Shittu (SAN), informed the court that the case was slated for the defendant to take his plea.
Counsel to Bodejo, Ahmed Raji (SAN), raised no objection to the commencement of proceedings.
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After the charges were read in open court, Bodejo pleaded not guilty to all 12 counts preferred against him by the anti-graft agency.
The charge, dated June 24 and filed on June 25, lists Bodejo as the sole defendant in the case.
With the defendant’s plea entered, the court is expected to proceed with the trial in line with criminal procedure.
The EFCC alleges that the offences involve the laundering of $2.63 million as well as terrorism financing, although the particulars of the allegations are expected to be fully ventilated during trial.
Bodejo maintains his innocence and will continue to enjoy the constitutional presumption of innocence unless the charges are proved beyond reasonable doubt by the prosecution.