Senator Konbowei Granted N50m Bail by FCT High Court
A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Apo has granted Senator Benson Konbowei, representing Bayelsa Central, bail in the sum of N50 million.
Konbowei was arraigned on Tuesday on three counts related to the alleged forgery of the National Youth Service Corps exemption certificate, among other charges. The court allowed him to return home pending the ruling on his bail application, scheduled for Thursday.
During the proceedings, the prosecution, represented by Rubben Egwaba, opposed the bail application, expressing concerns that the senator might interfere with the trial. Egwaba cited instances where Konbowei allegedly attempted to influence the case and lodged petitions against him.
In defense, counsel for the defendant, Gordy Uche (SAN), assured the court that Konbowei would not abscond if granted bail.
Presiding over the case, Justice Christopher Oba granted bail to Konbowei in the sum of N50 million. Additionally, the senator was required to provide two sureties with landed properties in the Federal Capital Territory, with their Certificate of Occupancy verified for authenticity.
Despite the bail grant, the court ordered that Konbowei be remanded in Kuje Correctional Facility until he fulfills the bail conditions.
Justice Oba emphasized that bail is at the discretion of the court, considering the nature of the charges, which are not capital offenses.
Furthermore, the judge declined an oral application from the defendant's lawyer to produce an undertaking ensuring Konbowei's presence in court until he completes his bail conditions.
The case has been adjourned until June 24, 25, and 27 for further proceedings. If the bail conditions are not met before the close of work, Senator Konbowei may spend Easter in Kuje Correctional Facility.
