Federal High Court Affirms Jurisdiction in Abba Kyari Drug Trafficking Case, Rejects Bail Appeals
The Federal High Court in Abuja has reaffirmed its jurisdiction over the ongoing drug trafficking case involving suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Abba Kyari and four members of the disbanded Intelligence Response Team (IRT). Justice Emeka Nwite dismissed the defendants' applications to quash the charges and denied their requests for bail, emphasizing the court's authority under Section 251 of the Nigerian Constitution and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Act .
Background of the Case
Abba Kyari, formerly lauded for his role in high-profile criminal investigations, faces serious allegations alongside ACP Sunday J. Ubua, ASP Bawa James, Inspector Simon Agirgba, and Inspector John Nuhu. The NDLEA has charged them with:
Conspiracy to deal in 17.55 kilograms of cocaine.
Dealing in cocaine without lawful authority.
Conspiracy to tamper with cocaine.
Unlawful tampering with 21.35 kilograms of cocaine seized from convicted drug traffickers.
Additionally, Kyari is accused of attempting to obstruct NDLEA operations by offering a $61,400 bribe to an agency officer to prevent the testing of the seized cocaine .
Court's Ruling on Jurisdiction and Bail
The defense argued that the charges were premature, contending that the Nigeria Police Force should have first subjected the officers to internal disciplinary procedures. However, Justice Nwite ruled that the Federal High Court possesses exclusive jurisdiction over drug-related offenses, and that the powers of the Police Service Commission do not supersede those of the court .
Regarding bail applications, the court found that the defendants failed to provide sufficient grounds to warrant their release. Justice Nwite emphasized the necessity of exercising judicial discretion prudently and noted that no exceptional circumstances justified granting bail in this case .
Appeal Court's Decision
Subsequently, the Court of Appeal in Abuja dismissed Kyari's appeal against the Federal High Court's decision. The appellate court concurred with the lower court's findings, stating that the appeal lacked merit and directing the trial to proceed .
Implications
This case underscores the Nigerian judiciary's commitment to addressing drug-related offenses and holding law enforcement officials accountable. The proceedings continue to draw public attention, reflecting broader concerns about corruption and integrity within the police force.
For ongoing updates on this case and related judicial proceedings, stay tuned to our blog.
0 Comments