A Federal High Court in Abuja has instructed the detention of Bello Bodejo, the leader of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore group, in DIA custody.
This decision followed his arraignment before Justice Inyang Ekwo on Friday.
Bodejo was apprehended on January 23 at the Miyetti Allah’s office in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State in connection with the establishment of a vigilante group.
On February 5, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), filed a motion ex parte seeking Bodejo’s remand pending the completion of investigations and court arraignment.
After the expiration of the order, the judge directed the DIA to either arraign Bodejo or grant him bail.
However, Bodejo was brought to court by heavily armed DIA personnel.
In the case numbered FHC/ABJ/CR/141/2024, the Federal Government charged Bodejo with three counts of terrorism, alleging that he established the group without authorization.
Bodejo pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The prosecution, represented by Mohammed Abubakar, informed the court of its readiness for trial and mentioned two witnesses, with the possibility of more.
Abubakar requested the court to set a trial date.
However, the defendant’s counsel, Mohammed Sheriff, contested the competence of the charges, stating that the amendment was made without court permission.
Justice Ekwo ruled to further detain the defendant in DIA custody and instructed the agency to provide necessary medical care as per the defense’s request.
Additionally, Justice Ekwo allowed ten members of the defendant’s family to attend court proceedings whenever the case is heard.
The trial is scheduled to commence on May 27.
