NIGERIA — The Federal High Court in Lagos has taken action in response to a bribery allegation made by a convict, who claims that officials from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) solicited a substantial sum to secure her release. The court has invited top NDLEA officials to provide their side of the story, according to Sahara Reporters
The convict, Mrs. H alleged that an officer involved in her case extorted a significant amount of money from her family while she was in custody. She believed the money was intended to facilitate her bail on drug-related charges. However, despite the payment, she was neither granted bail nor was the money returned.
During the court proceedings, Mrs. H's defense counsel argued for the return of the money to her family, claiming it was handed over to an officer under the pretense of securing her release. The prosecution, on the other hand, contended that the money was considered part of the proceeds of the alleged drug-related crime.
The Justice, who presided over the case, ruled in favor of the prosecution, allowing the money to be admitted as an exhibit. Further investigations will delve into how the money ended up in the possession of the agency, leading to the invitation of key NDLEA officials to provide explanations.
The court also sentenced Mrs. H to a prison term, with an option to pay a fine. In addition to the sentence, she is required to perform community service.
The case will continue on a later date, during which the NDLEA officials involved in the alleged incident will be called upon to clarify their connection to the matter.
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