TheCable

A federal high court in Abuja has granted bail to Tanimu Turaki, former minister of special duties and inter-governmental affairs.

Turaki alongside three others were arraigned on Monday on a 16-count charge bordering on unlawful and criminal misappropriation of funds.

Other defendants are Sampson Okpetu, who served as his special assistant; Samtee Essentials Limited and Pasco Investment Limited — companies linked to Okpetu.

The EFCC alleged that the ex-minister used the two companies belonging to his aide to illegally transfer funds.

Having taken a “not guilty” plea, Joe Gazama, Turaki’s lawyer, asked the court to grant bail to his client.

The bail application was unopposed by the EFCC.

Inyang Ekwo, the judge, granted the defendants bail on self recognition and on the same conditions granted to them in the administrative bail by the EFCC.

The judge ordered them not to travel outside the jurisdiction of the court.

He also asked the EFCC to deposit the passports of the defendants with the court’s registrar.

The judge adjourned the matter till June 22 for trial.