Court grants Kaduna ex-governor, Yero bail

A federal high court in Kaduna has granted former governor Ramalan Yero bail in the sum of N1 million with two sureties, one of which must have landed property.Three other persons, who were detained with Yero at the Kaduna prison last week, were also granted bail in the sum of N1 million.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commissions (EFCC) had taken Yero to the High Court with former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman in the state, Abubakar Gaiya Haruna, former Minister of State for Power, Nuhu Wya and former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hamza Ishaq.

They were charged for money laundering and criminal conspiracy to misapply funds amounting to N700 million.Meanwhile, the former governor also freed 31 inmates before leaving the prison.

A statement by former Finance Commissioner under Yero, Sama’ila Aliyu Makarfi said: “Ramalan Yero in his usual characteristic, has settled the fines of 31 inmates serving various jail terms for different offenses at the Kaduna Central Prison today.”

According to Sama’ila, the former governor’s gesture to free the inmates was in line with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, especially during Ramadan to assist the needy. The 31 inmates were convicted for various crimes with options of fine, while others were given option of fine and compensations, but they could not pay, hence their incaceration,” he explained. Yero admonished the inmates to be of good behaviour, urging them to reflect on the good lessons they have learnt while in prison in order to become better citizens.