Abuja, Nigeria (TheGavel) – In a significant development, a Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to Isaac Bristol, a prominent whistleblower known online as “PIDOM Nigeria.” The court set his bail at N5 million with one surety in like sum.
Justice Emeka Nwite ruled in favor of Bristol’s bail application, emphasizing that bail is a constitutional right. The judge stated that Bristol would be granted bail unless there were reasonable grounds to believe he might evade trial or attempt to destroy evidence.
“All factors must be considered in granting bail, especially since criminal justice provides safeguards for both prosecution and defense,” Justice Nwite said.
The judge granted Bristol bail in the interest of justice, subject to certain conditions. Bristol must provide a surety who is a reasonable citizen with a verified tax clearance certificate and address. Additionally, he must deposit his international passport with the court.
If Bristol fails to comply with these conditions, his bail will be revoked. The judge ordered his remand in correctional service pending the perfection of his bail and adjourned the matter until November 5 for trial.
Bristol was arrested by the police in August and subsequently arraigned on a nine-count charge filed by the Inspector-General of Police. He was accused of unlawfully obtaining and distributing classified government documents, destroying evidence, and violating money laundering and cybercrime laws.
The police alleged that Bristol shared documents claiming President Bola Tinubu released N24.1 billion to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) through Vice President Kashim Shettima’s office. He was also accused of later claiming that the fund was increased to N90 billion.
Bristol denied these allegations, and his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, applied for bail on liberal terms, arguing that his client is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The prosecution opposed the bail application, citing the nature of the offenses as a reason to deny bail. (NAN)
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