By Suleiman Ibrahim, Abuja.
A magistrate court in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has granted bail of N1 million to Kabiru Turaki, a former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, following his arraignment on charges of false marriage, adultery, and other offences.
During the proceedings at the magistrate’s court in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, on Thursday, Turaki pleaded not guilty to the charges read to him in the First Information Report (FIR). The FIR alleges that Turaki engaged in “deceitfully inducing a belief of lawful marriage, adultery, and criminal intimidation,” in violation of sections 383, 387, and 389 of the Penal Code.
The prosecution’s case stems from a petition received by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Force FCID, Abuja, dated August 9, 2024. According to the charges, Turaki is accused of cohabiting with Ms. Hadiza Musa Bafta under misleading pretenses. The charges specify that between December 2014 and August 2016, he cohabited with Bafta at Han’s Place hotel, and from August 2016 to November 2021 at Ideal Home Holiday in Asokoro.
Furthermore, the charges allege that Turaki provided accommodations for Bafta at No. 12 Clement Akpagbo Close, Gauzape, from November 2021, leading her to believe he was married to her. This alleged relationship resulted in a child, whom Turaki allegedly denied paternity of after abandoning both mother and child. The prosecution claims he threatened to use his influence to harm them, intensifying the gravity of the accusations against him.
After Turaki’s plea, the prosecuting lawyer, Chijioke Okorie, requested a trial date. Turaki’s attorney, A. I. Mohammed, did not oppose this request but sought bail for his client, stating that he would be present for all court proceedings.
Presiding Magistrate Abubakar Jega granted Turaki bail under the condition that he provides two sureties, each with a similar financial guarantee and proof of residency within the court’s jurisdiction. The court has adjourned the case until March 11 for the commencement of the trial.
