Bauchi commissioner facing N4.6bn fraud charge gets court’s nod to travel for Hajj

In a significant ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, leave to travel abroad for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage and a pending surgery. This decision acknowledges the critical nature of health considerations, even amidst serious financial charges.

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There is no doubt that ill-health can be a special circumstance for the grant of application of this nature.

The court's decision, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, emphasizes the constitutional and humanitarian right to access proper medical care. The judge underscored that ill-health constitutes a special circumstance justifying the temporary release of travel documents, stating, "It is only the living that can praise God. So, it is only the living that can be tried, convicted, and punished for an offence."

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I must make it quite clear that everyone is entitled to be offered access to good medical care, whether he is being tried for a crime or have been tried or simply in detention.

This ruling is particularly noteworthy in Nigeria, where access to adequate healthcare can be a challenge. The court's prioritization of life and health over immediate custodial restrictions reflects a deep understanding of fundamental human rights. While Adamu faces a substantial N4.6 billion money laundering charge, the court's balanced approach ensures that his immediate medical needs are addressed, demonstrating a commitment to justice that considers all facets of an individual's well-being.

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It is only the living that can praise God. So, it is only the living that can be tried, convicted, and punished for an offence.