A Federal High Court, in Abuja has granted bail to former governor of Imo State, Senator Rochas Okorocha.
Justice Inyang Ekwo granted his application for bail on Tuesday.
Okorocha was docked on Monday, May 30, 2022, alongside Anyim Nyerere (a.k.a Anyim Chinenye), Naphtali International Ltd, Perfect Finish Multi Projects Ltd, Consolid Projects Consulting Ltd, Pramif International Ltd and Legend World Concepts Ltd on 17-count charge of stealing, conspiracy and money laundering to the tune of N3,147,000,000.00 (Three billion, One Hundred and Forty Seven Million Naira).
During trial on Tuesday, counsel for the first defendant, Oke Amaechi, SAN, prayed the court to grant the defendant bail, arguing that it is his constitutional right.
Counsel for the prosecution, Cosmos Ugwu however opposed the bail application on the grounds that the first defendant did not keep the terms of the administrative bail granted him by the Commission.
Justice Ekwo granted the first defendant bail in the sum of N500m with one surety.
The judge held that the surety must be a responsible citizen and own landed property, with verified Certificate of Occupancy within the jurisdiction of the court.
According to the judge, the C of O of the property and the international passport of the first defendant are to be deposited in the court registry, adding that the first defendant will also not travel without the permission of the court.
Justice Ekwo ordered that the second defendant should continue with the terms of the administrative bail offered to him by the EFCC.
The case was adjourned till November 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 for commencement of trial.
