By JOY KAKA

The Department of State Services (DSS) arraigned a 28-year-old man, Halidu Abdulmumeen before a Chief Magistrates’ Court, Wuse, Abuja, for allegedly circulating inciting statements against the Federal Government.

The DSS charged the defendant with inciting disturbance.

The prosecuting counsel, Y.I. Umar alleged that the defendant used his X account, formerly twitter handle to call Nigerian Shia (Islamic Movement in Nigeria) to attack US embassy in Nigeria.

Umar further alleged that the defendant tagged the First Lady Remi Tinubu and described her as a new hater of Northern Muslims, reminding her that time may be ticking but the northern Muslims will always remember.

He added that the post was capable of causing break down of law and order and constituting threat to the internal security of Nigeria.

The offence, he said contravened the provisions of section 114 of the Penal Code.

The defendant however pleaded not guilty.

The defence counsel, C.I. Nnemeka made a bail application for the defendant citing section 36(5) of the 1999 constitution saying that the charge was a mere allegation.

Nnemeka added that the defendant was presumed innocent until proven otherwise and urged the court to exercise its discretional powers and admit the defendant to bail in the most liberal terms.

The Magistrate, Abubakar Sadiq granted the defendant N500,000 bail with one reliable surety who must be an employee of a private or public organisation.

Sadiq ordered that the surety provide his employment letter, National Identity Management Commission (NIMSC) card, voters and official Identity card and swear to an affidavit of means of livelihood.

He added that the surety must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and address verified by the court’s registrar.

The Magistrate adjourned the matter until June 18 for hearing. (NAN)

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