Court Reserves Ruling on Akanbi’s Bail Bid as Defence Cites Worsening Health

LAGOS — The Lagos State High Court on Tuesday heard the bail application filed on behalf of Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi, with the court reserving its ruling to a date to be communicated to the parties.

The application was argued before Justice A.T. Muyideen, who had earlier adjourned proceedings in the matter until November 2026 to accommodate the annual court vacation.

However, the court brought forward the hearing of the bail application following concerns raised over the deteriorating health condition of Akanbi, who remains in custody.

Counsel to the defendant, Olalekan Ojo, SAN, urged the court to grant his client bail on medical grounds, arguing that Akanbi’s health had worsened while in custody.

Ojo also drew the court’s attention to a Certified True Copy of the police investigation report, which he said contained findings capable of exonerating his client.

The defence maintained that the circumstances surrounding Akanbi’s health warranted judicial consideration of his continued detention, while urging the court to exercise its discretion in favour of bail.

In a related application, Rukayat Afolabi, Esq., who represents co-defendants Shafi Fatai and Yusuf Ismaila, asked the court to direct the clinic at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre to release the medical records of her clients.

The request was presented as part of the defence’s effort to place the health condition of the defendants before the court.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) opposed the applications argued by the defence. However, the prosecution did not challenge the documentary evidence tendered by the defence during the proceedings.

Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Femi Falana and Mrs. Akinjide Williams, were also present in court to watch brief for the complainants.

After listening to the submissions of all parties, Justice Muyideen reserved ruling on the bail application, stating that the date for the ruling would be communicated to the parties.

The court’s decision on the bail request is therefore expected to determine whether Akanbi will be released from custody pending the determination of the substantive case.

Meanwhile, the substantive trial has been scheduled to commence on November 3, 2026.

The case will continue to attract attention as the parties await the court’s ruling on the bail application and prepare for the commencement of the main trial.