Outrage As Timi Frank Demands Investigation Into Ayeni’s ₦15 Billion Bail Terms

Political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has called for an urgent investigation into the bail conditions imposed on former bank executive, Tunde Ayeni, by a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Frank made the demand in a statement issued on Thursday, urging the National Judicial Council (NJC) to immediately and independently examine the circumstances surrounding the ruling in order to preserve public confidence in the judiciary.

He described the bail terms as excessive, unprecedented, and damaging to the image of Nigeria’s judicial system. Frank also alleged that certain government officials were interfering in the matter, claiming that the conditions imposed by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Apo Division of the FCT High Court amounted to punishment before conviction.

At the heart of the controversy is a bail requirement directing Ayeni’s surety to provide a ₦15 billion bank guarantee — equivalent to the amount involved in the charge — alongside a commitment that the sum would be forfeited to the Federal Government if Ayeni fails to appear in court.

Frank argued that such conditions were highly unusual for a bailable offence and inconsistent with bail terms granted in other major corruption cases.

According to him, the requirement was difficult to justify and risked undermining confidence in the justice system.

He referenced cases involving former governors Ifeanyi Okowa and Yahaya Bello, noting that despite facing allegations involving large sums of money, they were granted bail under less stringent conditions. He said the difference in treatment raised concerns about fairness and selective justice.

Frank further warned against the growing politicisation of the judiciary, insisting that courts should uphold constitutional rights rather than become tools for intimidation or punishment before trial.

He stressed that Nigeria’s criminal justice system must uphold the principle that an accused person remains innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.

Citing Section 36(5) of the 1999 Constitution, Frank maintained that Ayeni had shown willingness to face trial and should be granted reasonable conditions to prepare his defence while on bail.

He also urged the international community to pay close attention to the case, warning that any perception of compromise in the rule of law could negatively affect investor confidence and Nigeria’s global reputation.