Political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Comrade Timi Frank, has called on the National Judicial Council to immediately investigate the bail conditions granted to businessman and former bank chief, Tunde Ayeni, by a Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja.
Frank described the bail terms as excessive, unusual and damaging to the image of Nigeria’s judicial system, urging the council to intervene and restore public confidence in the nation’s courts.
In a statement released on Thursday, the former APC spokesman expressed concern over the conditions imposed by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the FCT High Court sitting in Apo, alleging that the ruling raised serious questions about fairness and justice.
At the centre of the controversy is the requirement that Ayeni must provide a surety with a bank guarantee of N15 billion, which represents the full amount stated in the charge against him. The condition also includes an undertaking that the money would be forfeited to the Federal Government if the defendant fails to appear for trial.
Frank argued that such bail terms were unprecedented for a bailable offence and appeared more like punishment before conviction rather than conditions meant to ensure the defendant’s appearance in court.
According to him, the situation has sparked concern among Nigerians who believe the judicial process should remain fair, balanced and free from unnecessary pressure or influence.
He further claimed that the conditions sharply differ from bail terms granted in other high profile corruption cases involving prominent political figures, including former governors Ifeanyi Okowa and Yahaya Bello, despite allegations involving huge sums of money.
Frank stated that the difference in treatment raises questions about consistency within the justice system and fuels public concerns about selective application of the law.
The activist also warned against allowing political interests to interfere with judicial proceedings, stressing that courts are expected to protect constitutional rights and uphold the principle of fairness at every stage of trial.
He referenced Section 36 subsection 5 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees that every accused person remains innocent until proven guilty by a competent court of law.
According to Frank, Ayeni has shown willingness to face trial and should therefore be granted reasonable conditions that would allow him adequate opportunity to prepare his defence while enjoying his constitutional rights.
He also appealed to the international community to pay close attention to the development, warning that concerns over the rule of law and judicial independence could negatively affect Nigeria’s global image and investor confidence.
Frank maintained that the National Judicial Council must carry out an independent review of the matter to reassure Nigerians that justice remains fair, transparent and free from external influence.
