Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court Abuja, has dismissed the bail applications filed by four suspects linked to notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji.
In a ruling, Justice Nwite held that the Prosecution led by the Attorney-General of the Federation had made a compelling case against the defendants that releasing them would be a great threat to the nation’s national security.
Justice Nwite agreed with the arguments of counsel to the AGF, David Kaswe, that though granting bail is at the discretion of the court, this decision must be exercised judicially and judiciously.
Justice Nwite, who granted an accelerated hearing of their trial, however, dismissed the bail plea.
The judge equally granted an ex-parte motion moved by Kaswe, seeking the protection of the witnesses as the trial commences immediately.
The prosecution had on February 10 argued that the defendants, if granted bail, might abscond.
The lawyer submitted that there was contending evidence that the defendants played significant roles in the terrorism activities led by Bello Turji in the northern part of the country.
He said if granted bail, the defendants might interfere with the evidence.
He argued that bail is not an absolute right, particularly when it borders on national security.
He said in considering bail applications, the court should equally consider the nature of the charge, the severity of the punishment, among other factors.
He said the character of evidence against the defendants wes very strong, as they are being charged with terrorism offences.
The lawyer urged the court to take judicial notice that some other members of the group listed as defendants were still at large.
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.
