Amanze Chinonye
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Monday denied bail to Yakubu Adamu, the Bauchi State Commissioner of Finance, and three other defendants standing trial over alleged terrorism financing and money laundering offences.
Justice Emeka Nwite refused the bail applications filed by Adamu alongside Balarabe Abdullahi Ilelah, Aminu Mohammed Bose and Kabiru Yahaya Mohammed, citing the gravity of the allegations and concerns over public safety.
The defendants were arraigned on December 31, 2025, on a 10-count charge bordering on terrorism financing and money laundering, contrary to Sections 2(1) and 19(1)(d), and punishable under Section 19(2)(b) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
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One of the charges alleges that Adamu, while serving as Commissioner for Finance in Bauchi State in 2024, received cash payments amounting to $6.95 million outside the financial system, an act the prosecution said violates provisions of the Act.
At the hearing of the bail application, counsel to the defendants, Chris Uche, SAN, urged the court to exercise its discretion in their favour, arguing that the court had the jurisdiction to grant bail and noting that the defendants were family men with responsibilities.
However, prosecution counsel, Chime Samuel, opposed the application, informing the court that the defendants were facing terrorism-related offences involving large sums of cash. He added that the charges include allegations of receiving about $1.8 million in cash outside financial institutions and disguising the origin of funds.
In his ruling, Justice Nwite held that terrorism-related offences pose a serious threat to social order and that granting bail at this stage could endanger the public.
“I have taken cognisance that terrorism-related offences threaten social order and pre-trial release could endanger the public,” the judge said. “The prosecution has succeeded in raising a reasonable presumption of criminal responsibility on the part of the applicants. In view of the foregoing, the interest of justice will be met by giving this matter accelerated hearing.”
Justice Nwite held that terrorism-related offences constitute a grave threat to public order and security, adding that granting bail to the defendants at this stage could undermine public safety. He ruled that the prosecution had established a reasonable presumption of criminal responsibility against the applicants.
Consequently, the court refused the bail applications and ordered an accelerated hearing of the case. The matter was adjourned to January 13, 2026, for commencement of trial.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
