Former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Kabiru Turaki, SAN, was granted bail in the amount of N1 million by a Federal Capital Territory Magistrate’s Court after being charged with false marriage, adultery, and related offences.
Turaki, who was arraigned on Thursday, pleaded not guilty after hearing the First Information Report in court.
The inquiry was initiated by a petition dated 9 August 2024 and was conducted by the Deputy Inspector General of Police in Abuja.
Turaki is charged with deceitfully inspiring a belief in a valid marriage, adultery by a male, and criminal intimidation, all of which are punishable under Sections 383, 387, and 389 of the Penal Code.
The FIR stated, “You, Barrister Kabiru Taminu Turaki (SAN), between December 2014 and August 2016, deceitfully cohabited with Ms. Hadiza Musa Bafta at a hotel called Han’s Place.
“You also cohabited with her at Ideal Home Holiday, Asokoro, between August 2016 and November 2021. You rented an apartment for her at No. 12 Clement Akpagbo Close, Guzape, in November 2021 and made her believe you were married to her. You continuously had sexual relations with her, which resulted in the birth of a baby girl.
“You abandoned Hadiza Musa Baffa and her child, denying paternity. You also threatened to use your influence and position to harm the mother and child.
“You are thereby suspected to have committed the above offences.”
The prosecuting counsel, Chijioke Okorie, requested a trial date after the ex-minister entered his plea.
The defendant’s lawyer, A. I. Mohammed, did not oppose the prosecution’s request and applied for bail, assuring the court that his client would be available whenever needed.
Magistrate Abubakar Jega granted Turaki bail in the sum of N1 million, with two sureties in the same sum.
He determined that the sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and present proof of residence.
The magistrate adjourned the case until 11 March for trial.
