By Milcah Tanimu
The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Inyang Edem Ekwo, has set May 29 as the start date for the trial of Bello Bodejo, the detained leader of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore. This decision follows the court’s rejection of Bodejo’s bail application.
Bodejo’s trial faced delays due to his absence in court, but his counsel, Dr. Ahmed Raji, SAN, confirmed that his client is now ready for trial. Raji noted that there is no current plan to contest the bail ruling, given the court’s directive for a speedy trial.
Bodejo was arrested by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) for allegedly forming an illegal ethnic militia group, Kungiya Zaman Lafiya, purportedly to promote terrorism. The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) arraigned Bodejo in March on a three-count charge under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. Bodejo has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Raji had requested bail for his client on grounds of ill health and the protection of his fundamental rights, emphasizing that Bodejo’s offenses are bailable and arguing his presumption of innocence under Section 36 of the Nigerian constitution. He pointed out that the group’s launch event had official attendance, contradicting claims of its illegality.
A sworn statement from Bodejo’s sibling, Mohammed Musa, supported the bail request, portraying Bodejo as a law-abiding citizen and denying his involvement in any militia activities. Musa emphasized that Bodejo’s organization aimed to provide community security rather than engage in terrorism.
However, the Federal Government, represented by attorney Y.A. Imana, opposed the bail application, citing national security concerns.
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