A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted ₦2 billion bail to the National President of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, Bello Abdullahi Bodejo, who is facing trial over an alleged $2.63 million money laundering and terrorism financing case.

Justice Inyang Ekwo approved the bail application after Bodejo was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)on a 12-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering and terrorism financing. The defendant pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

As part of the bail conditions, the court directed Bodejo to provide two sureties in the like sum of ₦2 billion. The sureties must meet conditions set by the court, including demonstrating the financial capacity to stand as guarantors. The court further ruled that the defendant must satisfy all bail conditions before his release.

According to the EFCC, Bodejo allegedly handled funds amounting to $2.63 million in violation of the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. The anti-graft agency also alleged that the funds were linked to activities connected with terrorism financing.

During the proceedings, prosecution counsel urged the court to ensure strict compliance with the bail conditions, maintaining that the charges were supported by the commission’s investigations.

Defence counsel, however, argued that the accused posed no flight risk and would make himself available for trial.

After considering the submissions of both parties, Justice Ekwo granted the bail application and adjourned the matter to a later date for the commencement of trial.

The case has attracted widespread public attention due to Bodejo’s position as the leader of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, one of Nigeria’s prominent cattle breeders’ associations.

The allegations remain before the court, and under Nigerian law, Bodejo is presumed innocent until proven guilty.