"Saraki Faces Defamation Lawsuit from Kwara Government"
By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin
The Kwara State Government has filed a criminal defamation case against former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, over comments he allegedly made concerning Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
The case was heard on Wednesday at the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin. According to the government, Saraki allegedly published and circulated statements through social media platforms and newspapers claiming that Governor AbdulRazaq did not complete secondary school education.
In the one-count charge filed by the State Ministry of Justice, the government described the statements as false, offensive, and capable of causing public unrest, in violation of Section 399 of the Kwara State Penal Code.
During the court proceedings, the prosecution counsel, Rafiu Balogun, informed the court that the matter was scheduled for arraignment. He requested that the court issue a bench warrant for Saraki’s arrest due to his absence despite being reportedly served with court documents.
The prosecution also urged the court to reject an adjournment application submitted by the defence, arguing that the defendant’s presence was essential for the arraignment to proceed.
In response, Saraki’s counsel, Jimoh Mumini (SAN), challenged the jurisdiction of the State High Court, contending that the matter should be heard by the Federal High Court. He also questioned whether the court processes had been properly served on his client.
After hearing submissions from both parties and taking a two-hour recess, the presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Folorunso, ruled that the defendant had the right to seek an adjournment.
The court subsequently postponed the case until July 3, 2026, when it will hear the preliminary objection and possibly proceed with the defendant’s arraignment.