A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has granted bail to Bello Bodejo in the sum of N2 billion in connection with an alleged $2.63 million money laundering case. Justice Inyang Ekwo delivered the ruling on Thursday, July 20, 2026, setting stringent conditions for the bail.
Bail Conditions and Sureties
The court ordered that Bodejo must produce two sureties in the like sum of N2 billion each. The sureties must be owners of landed properties within the Abuja Municipal Area Council, and the properties must be verified by the court registrar. Additionally, the sureties must deposit their international passports with the court and swear to an affidavit of means.
Justice Ekwo further directed that Bodejo must deposit his own international passport with the court and provide a recent passport photograph for identification. He is also required to submit a written undertaking to attend his trial without fail.
Allegations and Charges
Bodejo, a former director of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), is facing a six-count charge preferred by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges include money laundering involving $2.63 million, which the EFCC alleges was diverted from NIMC funds between 2020 and 2022.
According to the EFCC prosecutor, the defendant used his position to funnel the money into accounts of shell companies. The anti-graft agency argued that Bodejo posed a flight risk and should be remanded in custody pending trial.
Defense Arguments
Bodejo's counsel, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), urged the court to grant bail, citing the defendant's health condition and his cooperation with investigators. Awomolo argued that Bodejo is a first-time offender with a fixed abode in Abuja and would not abscond.
"My lord, the defendant is a responsible citizen who has always made himself available for investigation. He is not a flight risk, and the allegations are based on documentary evidence which he is willing to defend," Awomolo submitted.
Court Ruling
In his ruling, Justice Ekwo held that the prosecution failed to provide sufficient evidence to justify continued detention. He noted that the presumption of innocence remains until proven guilty and that bail is a constitutional right.
"The court is satisfied that the defendant has presented cogent reasons to warrant the exercise of discretion in his favor. However, the bail conditions are designed to ensure his attendance at trial," the judge said.
Impact and Next Steps
Bodejo's release is contingent on meeting all bail conditions. The case has been adjourned to October 10, 2026, for the commencement of trial. The EFCC has vowed to present a robust case, including forensic audit reports and testimony from whistleblowers.
This high-profile case highlights the ongoing crackdown on corruption within government agencies. The N2 billion bail is one of the largest ever granted in a money laundering case in Nigeria, reflecting the severity of the allegations.
