Former Nigerian Minister Gets Released From Custody

Alhaji Ikra Aliyu Bilbis, a former minister of information and senatorial candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has at long last been unconditionally released on bail following accusations of criminal conspiracy and public disturbances.

It should be recalled that the former minister was detained by police officers two weeks ago and charged with destroying All Progressives Congress (APC) billboards and other property at the Zamfara State Upper Sharia Court 11.

The former minister was granted bail by the court with the tough requirements of providing two sureties: one who owns a residence in Gusau town worth N20 million and a permanent secretary who is currently employed by the state civil service.

It was first reported that he was unable to comply with the requirements, which led to his imprisonment until Wednesday, December 14, 2022, when he was subsequently freed unconditionally.

When reached, Barrister Shehu Ajiya, the legal adviser to the state PDP chapter, confirmed his release.

“The former minister was released on bail without any attached condition.

“At the resumed hearing of the matter on Dec.13, the presiding judge was not in court but later sent a notice of his release without any condition,” he said.

The case was adjourned for a hearing on the substantive lawsuit on December 27, 2022, according to the state PDP Legal Adviser.