Court Approves Further Detention Of Miyetti Allah Leader, Six Others

The Federal High Court in Abuja has authorized the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) to hold Alhaji Bello Bodejo, the President of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, along with six other individuals for a period of 60 days.

Naija News reports that this decision is intended to facilitate investigations into allegations of banditry and illegal possession of firearms.

Justice Emeka Nwite granted this detention following an ex-parte application submitted by DIA counsel I.O. Odom.

The case, designated as FHC/ABJ/CS/1875/V/2024, sought a two-month extension to ensure a comprehensive investigation.

The individuals apprehended in Nasarawa State on December 11 include Bodejo, Suleiman Abba, Umar Jibrin, Umar Bello, Muhammed Ayuba, Jibrin Baba, and Saidu Wakili.

After their arrest by Nigerian Armed Forces personnel, the suspects were placed in the custody of the DIA.

An affidavit presented by DIA investigator Bonny Ozegbe indicated that the suspects were implicated in an assault on a military installation in Nasarawa State. This attack, reportedly led by Bodejo, resulted in injuries to both soldiers and civilians, the theft of military weapons, and considerable damage.

Among the items recovered from the suspects were AK-47 rifles and ammunition. The affidavit also highlighted ongoing efforts to apprehend additional accomplices.

“Releasing the suspects could jeopardise the investigation and pose a serious threat to national security,” Ozegbe stated.

Justice Nwite approved the request, allowing the Department of Internal Affairs to retain custody of the suspects until March 3, 2025, at which point the case will be addressed.

In a related matter, Justice Mohammed Zubairu of the FCT High Court mandated the release of Bodejo from the custody of the Department of State Services, ruling that his prior detention without charges was unlawful.