The Oyo State High Court in Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria has granted bail to 12 suspects charged with the murder of Jeffrey Akro, an undergraduate of Ajayi Crowther University. Presiding Judge, Justice Ladiran Akintola, set bail at ₦5 million for each suspect, along with two sureties, one of whom must be a biological parent.
The suspects, who pleaded not guilty to a two-count charge during the initial hearing, were granted bail after the judge assessed the matter holistically. The trial has been adjourned to February 21, 2025, for further proceedings.
Victor Otomiewo, the prosecutor’s counsel and former Attorney General of Delta State, emphasized that granting bail does not equate to a declaration of innocence. “Justice, not abstract justice, is being served,” he stated.
Defense counsel Wole Efunnuga expressed satisfaction with the judge’s approach, noting that the decision was balanced and took into account the views of all parties involved.
The case, which has drawn public attention, highlights the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring justice while upholding the rights of the accused.
