A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to a former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Haliru Bello, and his son, Abba, two days after they were arraigned on money laundering charges.
The judge, Ahmed Mohammed, ruled that Mr. Bello and his son deposit N300 million each, among other conditions, for their bail.
Mr. Bello is one of many high profile personalities charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for allegedly receiving parts of arms funds allegedly diverted by a former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki.
On Monday, he appeared in court on a wheel chair, and was later permitted to receive medical treatment at a hospital in Abuja, under police protection.
Justice Mohammed said on Wednesday that the affidavits before the court showed that Mr. Bello’s and his son’s claim of ill health did not appear to be false.
He noted that the first defendant, Abba Bello, was said to have bronchial asthma, while his father had an injury in the spinal cord.
“Then it will be most unfair to refuse the bail application,” Mr. Mohammed said.
The judge ruled that the first and third defendants, Abba, and Haliru Bello, respectively be granted bail on the condition that they provide N300 million and two sureties.
The first surety must be a civil servant not below level 12, while the second must have properties in Abuja worth the bail sum.
Both defendants are to submit their international passports, the court ruled.
Justice Mohammed further ruled that Mr. Abba Bello be remanded at Kuje prison, while Haliru bello should remain under the care of the Inspector General of Police, while receiving treatment.
The court adjourned till February 16 for commencement of trial.
