In response to the application filled by the detained convener of #Revolution Now protest, Omoyele Sowore for a reduction in his bail conditions over alleged treasonable felony charges, Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu of the Federal High Court has carried out a review of the bail conditions.
It could be recalled that Justice Ojukwu had on October 4 placed what has been described as ‘heavy’ bail condition for the release of Sowore in the sum of M100 million with two sureties, one which must deposit the sum of N50 million cash as security for the bail.
According to the judge, the two sureties must be resident in Abuja and must show evidence of tax payment for three years from 2014 to 2016.
Sowore’s co-defendant, Olaleye Bakare was also admitted to bail in the sum of N50 million on October 4. He was expected to produce one surety in the sum of N50 million and also show evidence of tax payment in the last three years.
Under the bail conditions, Sowore must also not travel without the permission of the court or even participate in any form of protest pending the determination of the suit.
While delivering its ruling on Sowore’s new application for reduction in his bail conditions, the court accepted Sowore’s request and directed one of the sureties to make a security deposit of N50 million.
Though the court reduced the bail of Bakare from N50 million to N20 million, it kept that of Sowore at N100 million.
Justice Ojukwu, who maintained that all previous conditions attached to the bail stands,noted that the order restraining Sowore from participating in rallies and protests was not an infringement of his fundamental rights.
Then judge then adjourned the matter till November 6 and 7 for the commencement of trial.
Samson Oyedeyi
