The Federal High Court in Abuja has reversed an earlier decision denying bail to Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, and his co-defendants. Charged with terrorism financing and money laundering by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the defendants were granted bail by Justice Mohammed Umar on Wednesday, a marked departure from a previous ruling.

Yakubu Adamu, alongside Balarabe Abdullahi Ilelah, Aminu Mohammed Bose, and Kabiru Yahaya Mohammed, who were signatories to Bauchi State Government accounts or other financial instruments, faced 10 counts of conspiracy, conversion of public funds, and terrorism financing under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.

The prosecution alleged that between January and May 2024, the defendants authorized the release of $2.33 million belonging to Bauchi State to Bello Bodejo, leader of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, allegedly for terrorist activities. Additionally, nearly $6.95 million was purportedly released for Adamu’s personal benefit. The defendants have denied all allegations. Court filings also implicated Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed in approving certain funds, with the State Accountant-General reportedly absconding.

The case was initially handled by Justice Emeka Nwite, who denied bail due to the gravity of the charges. After Justice Nwite recused himself, the file was reassigned to Justice Umar. The defendants argued that new evidence and exceptional facts justified bail, which the court ultimately granted, reflecting the evolving dynamics of this high-profile case.