The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday granted bail totaling N1 billion to 109 foreign nationals accused of cybercrimes and hacking activities alleged to pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s national security.

Bail Conditions and Court’s Ruling
Justice Ekerete Akpan, presiding over the case, ruled that each defendant must present five sureties who own landed property within Abuja, alongside recent passport photographs.

Additionally, the defendants and their sureties must submit their original passports to the court’s deputy registrar. The judge emphasized that these measures would ensure the defendants remain available for trial.

Defence Counsel’s Submission
Senior Advocate of Nigeria James Onoja, representing the majority of the defendants, argued that the purpose of bail is to allow the accused to prepare for their defense and attend trial.

Onoja assured the court that:

• All defendants’ travel documents would be surrendered.
• Reliable guarantors would be provided.

Supporting Onoja, counsel for the Brazilian defendants, Eric Oba, also requested similar bail terms for his clients, aligning with the defense’s broader strategy.

Prosecution’s Stance
The prosecution, represented by A.A. Egwu, did not oppose the bail application. The primary concern was to ensure the defendants appear for trial.

Judge’s Considerations
While granting bail, Justice Akpan noted the defendants’ foreign status, raising concerns about their potential flight risk. However, he acknowledged:

• The charges are not capital offences.
• The law presumes the defendants innocent until proven guilty.
• Bail conditions must be stringent enough to prevent flight risks.

Pending the fulfillment of bail conditions:

• Male defendants will be remanded at Kuje Prison.
• Female defendants will be remanded at Keffi Prison in Nasarawa State.

Next Steps
The trial is scheduled to commence on February 27, 2025.

The 109 defendants face a six-count charge of alleged cybercrimes reportedly committed in Katampe, Abuja, earlier in 2024. The case underscores Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to tackle cybercrime while ensuring adherence to the rule of law and fair trial standards.