From Godwin Tsa, Abuja
The Abuja division of the Federal High Court has adjourned the ruling on the bail application filed by detained Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore President, Bello Bodejo, until May 30. Bodejo faces a three-count terrorism charge and has been in the custody of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) since his arrest on January 23.
The prosecution alleges that Bodejo established an ethnic militia group in Nasarawa State without authorisation, provided “material support, assistance, and transportation for activities connected with such acts,” and participated in acts “prejudicial to national security and public safety.” The prosecution’s statement echoes the language of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Bodejo’s counsel, Ahmed Raji, SAN, argued that the charges are bailable and that his client should be presumed innocent until proven guilty. He cited Bodejo’s deteriorating health and lack of evidence as grounds for bail, stating that under the 1999 Constitution, as amended, “he ought to be presumed innocent until his guilt is established.”
However, the prosecution, represented by Aderonke Imana, opposed bail, arguing that Bodejo’s continued detention is in the interest of national security. Imana stated that “the continued detention of the defendant was in the interest of national security.” The prosecution also refuted claims of inadequate medical care, stating that the DIA has access to the State House Medical Centre, “which boasts of the best of doctors, specialists, and consultants.”
Justice Inyang Ekwo adjourned the case to May 30 for a ruling on the bail application.