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Former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Kabiru Turaki, has appeared before a Magistrate’s Court in Abuja’s Zone Two, facing charges of false marriage, adultery, and other related offences.
Turaki pleaded not guilty when the First Information Report (FIR) was read to him before the presiding Magistrate of Court Nine, Abubakar Jega.
The ex-minister denied the allegations, which, according to the FIR, include “deceitfully inducing belief in lawful marriage, adultery by a man, and criminal intimidation,” offences contrary to Sections 383, 387, and 389 of the Penal Code.
The prosecution stated that the case was initiated following a petition dated 9th August 2024, submitted to the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Abuja.
The investigation reportedly revealed that between December 2014 and August 2016, Turaki allegedly cohabited with Ms Hadiza Musa Baffa at Han’s Place hotel.
It was further alleged that between August 2016 and November 2021, he continued the cohabitation at Ideal Home Holiday, Asokoro.
The allegations also include that from November 2021, Turaki rented an apartment for Hadiza in Guzape and led her to believe they were legally married.
He allegedly maintained a sexual relationship with her, resulting in the birth of a baby girl.
The FIR further claims that Turaki later abandoned Hadiza and the child, denied paternity, and allegedly threatened to use his influence to harm them.
Following the arraignment, the prosecuting lawyer, Chijioke Okorie, urged the court to set a date for the commencement of trial.
Turaki’s defence counsel, A. I. Mohammed, did not oppose the request for trial but applied for bail, assuring the court that the defendant would be available whenever required.
Magistrate Jega granted Turaki bail in the sum of ₦1 million, with two sureties in like sum.
The sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and provide proof of residence.
The case was adjourned until 11th March for the commencement of trial.
