A Federal Capital Territory Magistrate’s Court has granted bail to Kabiru Turaki, SAN, a former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, in the sum of N1 million.
Turaki was arraigned on Thursday on charges of false marriage, adultery, and criminal intimidation.
The former minister pleaded not guilty to the allegations when the First Information Report was read to him in court.
The charges, based on a petition dated August 9, 2024, were brought by the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Abuja.
According to the prosecutor, Chijioke Okorie, Turaki allegedly committed offences contrary to Sections 383, 387, and 389 of the Penal Code.
The FIR detailed, “You, Barrister Kabiru Taminu Turaki (SAN), between December 2014 and August 2016, deceitfully cohabited with Ms Hadiza Musa Baffa 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.”
Following the defendant’s plea, the prosecuting counsel requested a trial date, while Turaki’s lawyer, A. I. Mohammed, applied for bail, assuring the court of his client’s availability for trial.
Magistrate Abubakar Jega granted the bail application, setting the bail sum at N1 million with two sureties in like sum.
The court ruled that the sureties must reside within its jurisdiction and present proof of residence.
The trial was subsequently adjourned to March 11, 2025.
