Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has denied bail to four suspects linked to notorious bandit kingpin Bello Turji.
In his ruling, Justice Nwite agreed with the prosecution, led by the Attorney-General of the Federation, that releasing the defendants would pose a significant threat to national security.
He emphasized that while granting bail is at the court’s discretion, such discretion must be exercised responsibly and in consideration of the broader implications.
The prosecution’s counsel, David Kaswe, argued that the defendants were deeply involved in the terrorist activities orchestrated by Turji in northern Nigeria.
He cautioned that granting them bail could lead to interference with evidence or their absconding, particularly as some accomplices remain at large.
Kaswe also highlighted the severity of the charges, which include terrorism, and the strength of the evidence against the suspects.
Justice Nwite dismissed the bail applications and granted an ex-parte motion by Kaswe to protect prosecution witnesses as the trial proceeds.
The court has ordered an accelerated hearing of the case.
He said, “chief among them is the 6th defendant, Bello Turji, who continues to cause mayhem and havoc to innocent Nigerians and has become a threat to national security.”
Delivering the ruling, Justice Nwite said he was not unmindful of the constitution that a person charged with criminal offence is innocent until proven guilty.
The judge, however, said that all facts had to be considered.