By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Miyetti Allah leader’s brother denies involvement in ethnic militia establishment.
Mohammed Musa, brother to Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore’s President, Bello Bodejo, has refuted claims of his brother’s association with an ethnic militia group called Kungiya Zaman Lafiya. Musa clarified in an affidavit supporting Bodejo’s bail application that his brother only established a registered vigilante company aimed at providing security services and promoting peace in the society. He emphasized that the company, named Nomad Vigilante Nigeria Limited, was not involved in any form of terrorism.
In response, the Federal Government, through a litigation clerk, Noma Wando, urged the court to reject Bodejo’s bail application, disputing his claim of suffering from a life-threatening illness. Wando also argued that granting bail to Bodejo would risk him evading trial, given the seriousness of the alleged offenses and the potential punishment.
Bodejo was arrested on January 23 at Miyetti Allah’s office in Nasarawa State for allegedly unveiling a militia group. He was subsequently arraigned before Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja on charges of terrorism. During the hearing on his bail application, Bodejo’s counsel sought an adjournment to respond to new issues raised by the FG in its counter-affidavit.
Additionally, the defense lawyer requested the court to order the Department of State Services (DSS) to grant Bodejo access to his lawyers, emphasizing the importance of adequate preparation for trial. However, the prosecution disagreed, stating that Bodejo had already been granted access to his lawyers.
Justice Ekwo instructed Bodejo’s counsel to report any denial of access to the court promptly.
Miyetti Allah, ethnic militia, bail application, terrorism, vigilante company.