A Federal Capital Territory Magistrate’s Court has granted bail to Kabiru Turaki, SAN, a former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, following his arraignment on charges of false marriage, adultery, and criminal intimidation.
Turaki, who appeared before the court on Thursday, pleaded not guilty to the allegations outlined in the First Information Report (FIR).
The case stemmed from an August 9, 2024, petition, which led to a police investigation and prosecution by the Deputy Inspector General of Police in Abuja.
According to the prosecution, Turaki allegedly deceived Hadiza Musa Baffa into believing they were legally married and cohabited with her at various locations, including Han’s Place Hotel and Ideal Home Holiday in Asokoro, between 2014 and 2021.
He reportedly rented an apartment for her in Guzape in 2021 and maintained a relationship that resulted in the birth of a child.
However, he later abandoned both mother and child, denied paternity, and allegedly used his influence to intimidate them.
The prosecution argued that these actions violated Sections 383, 387, and 389 of the Penal Code. While requesting a trial date, prosecuting counsel Chijioke Okorie presented the case before the court. Defense counsel A. I. Mohammed did not oppose the request but applied for bail, assuring the court of Turaki’s availability for trial.
Presiding Magistrate Abubakar Jega granted the former minister bail in the sum of N1 million, with two sureties of the same amount.
He further directed that the sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and provide proof of residence.
The case has been adjourned until March 11 for trial.