A Magistrate Court in Abuja on Thursday granted bail in the sum of ₦1 million to Tracy, amid controversy surrounding her arrest in a case linked to Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi.
The court, sitting in the Federal Capital Territory, ruled that the defendant be released on bail pending further proceedings. As part of the conditions, she is to provide a surety deemed credible by the court.
Although the magistrate did not delve into the substantive issues of the case at this stage, the court emphasized that the criminal justice system must not be used as an instrument of oppression, stressing that public office does not place any individual above the law.
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, appeared in court and stood as surety for Tracy, a move that drew attention from civil society groups and supporters present at the proceedings.
Sowore described the matter as a test of the country’s commitment to civil liberties and due process, maintaining that citizens must not be subjected to intimidation through state institutions.
Supporters gathered outside the courtroom hailed the bail decision as a positive development, arguing that the judiciary has a constitutional duty to act as a check on potential excesses of executive power.
The case has sparked debate among legal observers and rights advocates, some of whom have raised concerns about the circumstances leading to Tracy’s arrest.
While the Minister of Works has not publicly issued a detailed statement on the matter at the time of filing this report, critics argue that law enforcement agencies must remain neutral and resist pressure in politically sensitive cases.
Legal analysts note that bail is a constitutional right in non-capital offences and does not amount to a determination of guilt or innocence.
The court adjourned the matter to a later date for continuation of hearing.
As the case progresses, attention is expected to remain on the conduct of the parties involved and the broader implications for civil liberties and the rule of law.
For now, Tracy regains her temporary freedom under court-imposed conditions, as the legal process takes its course.
