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A Federal High Court in Abuja has denied bail to Yakubu Adamu, the Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, along with other defendants who are facing allegations of financing terrorism involving approximately $9.7 million.
Justice Emeka Nwite stated that the charges are serious and present a significant threat to national security and public safety.
He ruled that releasing the suspects prior to trial could jeopardize public safety and disrupt social order.
The judge emphasized that while the Constitution presumes an accused individual is innocent, bail decisions must consider the nature of the offense, the strength of the evidence, and the potential punishment.
He indicated that the prosecution had provided adequate material at this stage to warrant keeping the defendants in custody.
Nonetheless, the court mandated an expedited hearing to ensure the case is processed swiftly.
The trial is set to commence on January 13.
Adamu and his co-defendants were remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre following their arraignment on December 31, 2025. They pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has accused Adamu and other civil servants from Bauchi State of conspiring between January and May 2024 to transfer large sums of cash allegedly intended to support a terrorist organization.
The prosecution claims that the transactions received approval from the Bauchi State governor.
The defendants are charged under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act and the Money Laundering Act.
In a separate matter, Adamu is also facing another money laundering case involving N4.6 billion linked to his previous role as a bank branch manager.
In that instance, he was granted bail last week under strict conditions.
Why was bail denied to Yakubu Adamu?
Bail was denied because the charges against him are serious and pose a threat to national security and public safety. The judge cited the potential risks associated with releasing the suspects before trial.
What are the charges against Yakubu Adamu?
Yakubu Adamu and other defendants are charged with financing terrorism involving approximately $9.7 million and money laundering. They are also implicated in conspiracy to move large sums of cash allegedly intended for a terrorist group.
When is the trial scheduled to begin?
The trial is scheduled to begin on January 13.
What is the other case involving Yakubu Adamu?
In a separate case, Yakubu Adamu is facing charges of money laundering involving N4.6 billion from his tenure as a bank branch manager. He was granted bail in this case under strict conditions.



