Court admits ex- SGF Babachir Lawal, others to N50m bail

Andrew Orolua, Abuja

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, on Wednesday, admitted a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal and three others to bail in the sum of N50 million each with one surety each in like sum. Besides Lawal, the other persons granted bail are Hamidu David, Suleiman Abubakar, Apeh John. They were charged but arraigned before the court on Tuesday along two companies – Rholavision Engineering Ltd and Josmon Technologies Ltd for fraud. Justice Jude Okeke ruling on their bail applications on Wednesday said the crime for which the defendant is charged “is bailable.” Consequently, the court asked each of the defendants to provide N50 million bond each with one surety in like sum. “The sureties must be residents of the FCT and must own landed property. “The sureties must also provide evidence of tax paid in the last three years. He ordered that “pending compliance to the aforementioned conditions, the applicants are to remain in the EFCC custody.” The court further noted that each of the defendants is to deposit his international passport with the court pending the determination of the suit. The judge adjourned to March 18 for the commencement of trial. Justice Okeke had on Tuesday reserved the ruling after listening to lawyers who argued the bail applications.