Former Police Officer Abba Kyari Released from Custody

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed the release of the suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Abba Kyari. The spokesperson for the FCT Command of the NCoS, Adamu Duza, verified this in a brief statement. He mentioned that Kyari had met the bail conditions set by the court and was consequently released.

“DCP Kyari has perfected his bail conditions and has been released today,” Duza stated.

In July last year, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted Kyari N50 million bail in a case where he and two of his siblings were accused of failing to declare assets to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). The NDLEA had filed a 24-count charge against Kyari and his brothers, Mohammed Baba Kyari and Ali Kyari.

Bail Conditions

Justice James Omotosho, who presided over the case, granted bail to Abba Kyari under the condition of providing N50 million with two sureties in like sum. The sureties must own property worth N25 million within the court’s jurisdiction, among other requirements.

However, the judge specified that even if Kyari met these conditions, his release warrant endorsement would depend on developments in a related case. In this sister case, Kyari is being tried with four others for alleged involvement in dealing illicit drugs.

Previously, Justice Omotosho granted bail to Kyari’s two siblings. The judge noted that he was inclined to grant Kyari bail because Kyari did not attempt to escape during an attack on Kuje Prison on July 5, 2022. Most inmates at the correctional facility escaped during the attack, but Kyari and a few others remained.

Justice Omotosho highlighted that Kyari’s decision not to escape demonstrated his willingness to face the allegations and not jump bail. He also noted that the charges against Kyari were bailable.