A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to human rights activist Olamide Thomas in the sum of N10 million, with stringent conditions attached. The ruling, delivered on Monday, requires Thomas to provide one surety who must meet specific criteria.
Thomas is facing charges filed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and two others. The allegations stem from claims that Thomas insulted President Bola Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, and senior police officials, including IGP Egbetokun and Police Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi, in a viral social media post. The case, identified by suit number F/HE/ARS/CR/636/2024, lists the IGP as the complainant.
During the bail hearing, Thomas’s legal team, led by Dr. S. M. Oyeghe and J. A. Ekwe, argued for his release. Notably, there was no appearance by the prosecution.
Justice Emeka Nwite, in his ruling, stated that there was insufficient evidence to suggest Thomas would abscond if granted bail. He outlined the bail conditions, which include the following:
The surety must present a three-year tax clearance certificate.
The surety must reside within the court’s jurisdiction.
The surety must provide two recent passport photographs and an affidavit of means.
The surety’s address must be verified by the court.
The trial has been adjourned to February 18, 2025.
Reacting to the court’s decision, activist Omoyele Sowore expressed his views on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, describing the bail conditions as overly stringent and oppressive. Sowore pledged to continue fighting against what he termed the Nigeria Police Force’s abuse of power and misconduct.
“Nurse Olamide was granted bail this morning in Abuja. Though the bail conditions were stringent and unduly oppressive, we will keep fighting against Nigeria’s Police Force abuse and irresponsible conduct!” Sowore wrote.
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