A Federal High Court in Abuja has made a significant ruling, ordering the leader of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore group, Bello Bodejo, to be remanded in DIA custody. This decision followed Bodejo’s arraignment before Justice Inyang Ekwo on Friday.
Bodejo was taken into custody on January 23 at the Miyetti Allah’s office in Nasarawa State for his involvement in the establishment of a vigilante group. The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), later filed a motion seeking Bodejo’s remand pending the completion of the investigation and court proceedings.
The court gave the DIA the option to either arraign Bodejo or grant him bail after the expiration of the remand order. However, Bodejo was brought to court by heavily armed DIA personnel. The Federal Government has charged Bodejo with three counts of terrorism, accusing him of setting up the group without authorization.
Despite pleading not guilty to the charges, Bodejo’s bail application was denied, and he was ordered to remain in DIA custody. The court also instructed the DIA to provide Bodejo with necessary medical attention and allowed 10 members of his family to attend the trial proceedings.
The trial is set to commence on May 27, with the prosecution ready to present two witnesses and potentially call more as needed. The defense lawyer raised concerns about the competence of the charges, highlighting that amendments were made without court approval.
This development marks a crucial step in the legal proceedings against Bello Bodejo, shedding light on the complexities surrounding his alleged involvement in activities deemed prejudicial to national security and public safety. Stay tuned for updates as the trial unfolds.