The Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja has granted bail in the sum of N20 million to human rights’ activist, Omoyele Sowore with two sureties, one of whom must be a federal civil servant not below grade level 12.
Sowore and four others were arrested and brutalized by armed policemen on crossover night, December 31, 2020, for organizing a candlelight procession to celebrate New Year at Gudu junction in Abuja. On Monday, January 4, they was arraigned alongside four others on a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy, unlawful assembly and incitement.
While ruling on the bail application filed by their lawyer, Marshal Abubakar, the Chief Magistrate, Mabel Segun-Bello, ruled that the sureties must reside in Abuja metropolis with landed properties and known addresses. Also, the 2nd to 5th defendants were also admitted to bail in the sum of N1million and one surety in like sum.
Sowore is also expected to physically report to the registrar of Federal Capital Territory High Court every Monday and Friday pending the determination of the case against him. He Is not expected to travel outside Abuja and the country.
The judge has adjourned the matter to February 5, 2021, for trial.
