Miyetti Allah leader Alhaji Bodejo has been detained by the Directorate of Intelligence and Investigations (DIA) on terrorism charges. This decision was taken after his arraignment before Justice Inyang Ekwo on Friday March 22, 2024.
The Federation’s Attorney General, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), had filed an ex parte motion on February 5 to keep Bodejo in custody until the conclusion of investigation and indictment. The arrest of the Miyetti Allah chairman, which occurred on January 23 at the group’s office in Karu local government of Nasarawa State, followed the establishment of a vigilante group.
On Friday, under heavy security, the DIA presented Bodejo in court. The terrorism charge against the Miyetti Allah leader was brought by the federal government, comprising three counts.
Challenging the prosecution’s jurisdiction, defense lawyer Mohammed Sheriff noted that the amendments to the charges against his client were made without the court’s permission. Despite this, Bodejo pleaded not guilty.
Justice Ekwo ordered that the defendant be remanded in DIA custody. He also ordered the DIA to guarantee the accused the necessary medical care. Additionally, it will allow 10 members of Bodejo’s family to attend the hearing on the day of the trial.
This case is attracting interest because of the issues surrounding the terrorism charges brought against the leader of Miyetti Allah. Let us remain attentive to the evolution of this situation which raises several questions.