…orders strict reporting to DSS, seizure of passports
By Sodiq Adelakun
A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted N100 million bail each to the Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, and three other defendants over alleged terrorism financing and money laundering offences involving $9.7 million.
Justice Mohammed Umar, in a ruling delivered on Wednesday, said the defendants had placed sufficient materials before the court to justify the exercise of judicial discretion in their favour.
The other accused persons are Balarabe Ilelah, Aminu Bose and Kabiru Mohammed.
“The court has carefully considered the submissions before it and is satisfied that the defendants deserve bail,” Justice Umar ruled.
As part of the bail conditions, the judge directed each defendant to provide two sureties, who must be a Permanent Secretary and a Director in the civil service.
The court also ordered them to deposit their international passports with the court registry.
In addition, the defendants were mandated to report to the Department of State Services (DSS) every Monday until the case is fully determined.
Justice Umar adjourned the matter to February 26, 2026, for the commencement of trial.
The defendants are facing 10-count charges bordering on terrorism financing and money laundering, filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
They were earlier denied bail in December 2025 by Justice Emeka Nwite, sitting as a vacation judge. However, following the reassignment of the case, the defendants filed a fresh bail application, which was granted by Justice Umar.