A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Magistrate’s Court in Abuja has granted bail to former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Kabiru Turaki, SAN, in the sum of N1 million. Turaki was arraigned on Thursday, February 1, 2025, on allegations of false marriage, adultery, and criminal intimidation. The case, which has drawn significant public attention, stems from a petition filed by Ms. Hadiza Musa Bafta, accusing the former minister of deceitfully inducing her into a false marriage and abandoning her and their child.

The Charges Against Turaki

Kabiru Turaki, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), pleaded not guilty to the charges read against him in court. The charges, based on a petition dated August 9, 2024, include:

1. Deceitfully inducing a belief in a lawful marriage (contrary to Section 383 of the Penal Code).
2. Adultery by a man (contrary to Section 387 of the Penal Code).
3. Criminal intimidation (contrary to Section 389 of the Penal Code).

The First Information Report (FIR) presented by the prosecution detailed the allegations against Turaki. According to the FIR, the former minister allegedly cohabited with Ms. Hadiza Musa Bafta at various locations, including Han’s Place Hotel and Ideal Home Holiday in Asokoro, between December 2014 and November 2021. During this period, Turaki reportedly rented an apartment for Ms. Bafta at No. 12 Clement Akpagbo Close, Guzape, and led her to believe they were lawfully married.

The relationship allegedly resulted in the birth of a baby girl. However, Turaki is accused of abandoning Ms. Bafta and their child, denying paternity, and threatening to use his influence and position to harm them.

Court Proceedings

The case was prosecuted by the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Abuja, with Chijioke Okorie serving as the prosecuting counsel. After Turaki entered his plea of not guilty, the prosecution requested a trial date.

Turaki’s defense lawyer, A. I. Mohammed, did not oppose the prosecution’s request but applied for bail on behalf of his client. Mohammed assured the court that Turaki would be available for trial and would comply with all court requirements.

Magistrate Abubakar Jega granted Turaki bail in the sum of N1 million, with two sureties required to provide proof of residence within the court’s jurisdiction. The case was adjourned until March 11, 2025, for trial.

The Allegations in Detail

The FIR outlined the timeline of events leading to the charges against Turaki:

• December 2014 to August 2016: Turaki allegedly cohabited with Ms. Bafta at Han’s Place Hotel.
• August 2016 to November 2021: The couple reportedly lived together at Ideal Home Holiday in Asokoro.
• November 2021: Turaki rented an apartment for Ms. Bafta in Guzape, Abuja, where they continued their relationship.

During this period, Ms. Bafta claimed that Turaki led her to believe they were married, and their relationship resulted in the birth of a child. However, after the child’s birth, Turaki allegedly abandoned Ms. Bafta and denied paternity.

The FIR also accused Turaki of threatening to use his influence and position to harm Ms. Bafta and their child, leading to the charge of criminal intimidation.

Turaki’s Defense

While Turaki has pleaded not guilty to the charges, his legal team has yet to present a detailed defense. However, the granting of bail suggests that the court found no immediate risk of him fleeing or obstructing justice. The case is expected to proceed to trial, where both parties will present their evidence and arguments.

Public Reaction

The case has sparked widespread discussion, particularly on social media, where opinions are divided. Some have expressed sympathy for Ms. Bafta, calling for justice and accountability. Others have cautioned against rushing to judgment, emphasizing the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

As a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and law, Turaki’s case has also raised questions about the conduct of public officials and the need for accountability in personal and professional matters.

Implications of the Case

This case highlights several critical issues, including:

1. Legal Accountability: The charges against Turaki underscore the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their status or influence.
2. Women’s Rights: Ms. Bafta’s allegations bring to light the challenges women face in seeking justice, particularly in cases involving powerful individuals.
3. Public Trust: The case serves as a reminder of the need for public officials to maintain integrity and transparency in their personal and professional lives.

Conclusion

The arraignment of Kabiru Turaki on allegations of false marriage, adultery, and criminal intimidation marks a significant legal and social moment. As the case proceeds to trial, it will be closely watched by the public and legal experts alike. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for issues of accountability, women’s rights, and public trust in Nigeria.

For now, Turaki remains on bail, with the trial set to begin on March 11, 2025. The court’s decision will ultimately determine the veracity of the allegations and the appropriate course of justice.