The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) authorization to detain Alhaji Bello Bodejo, President of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, alongside six others, for 60 days to facilitate investigations into allegations of banditry and illegal possession of firearms.
Justice Emeka Nwite issued the order after an ex-parte application filed by DIA counsel, I.O. Odom, under case number FHC/ABJ/CS/1875/V/2024. The application requested the two-month detention to ensure a comprehensive investigation into the case.
Details of the Arrest
The suspects—Bodejo, Suleiman Abba, Umar Jibrin, Umar Bello, Muhammed Ayuba, Jibrin Baba, and Saidu Wakili—were apprehended in Nasarawa State on December 11, 2024, during a Nigerian Armed Forces operation. Following their arrest, they were placed in DIA custody.
An affidavit by DIA investigator Bonny Ozegbe alleged that the suspects were involved in an assault on a military installation in Nasarawa State. The attack, allegedly led by Bodejo, resulted in injuries to soldiers and civilians, the theft of military weapons, and significant property damage.
Recovered items included AK-47 rifles and ammunition. The affidavit further emphasized the risks of releasing the suspects, citing potential threats to national security and the investigation.
Court’s Decision
Justice Nwite approved the DIA’s request, permitting the suspects’ detention until March 3, 2025, when the case will be revisited.
A Contrasting Court Ruling
In a separate legal development, Justice Mohammed Zubairu of the FCT High Court ordered the release of Bodejo from Department of State Services (DSS) custody, describing his prior detention without charges as unlawful.
The contrasting rulings reflect the complexities of balancing individual rights with national security concerns as authorities continue to investigate the alleged crimes.