By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki appeared at the centre of a criminal defamation case on Wednesday after the Kwara State Government filed charges against him at the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin. The government accused Saraki of making false statements about Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s educational qualification through social media and newspaper publications. The court adjourned the matter until July 3, 2026, to determine its jurisdiction before considering his arraignment.
Kwara Government Accuses Saraki of Defamation
The Kwara State Ministry of Justice filed a one-count charge against Saraki. It alleged that he falsely claimed Governor AbdulRazaq did not complete his secondary school education.
According to the government, the statements were false, defamatory and capable of causing public unrest. It also argued that the allegations lacked factual support and aimed to damage the governor’s reputation.
The prosecution based the charge on Section 399 of the Kwara State Penal Code, which criminalises defamatory statements that could disturb public peace.
Prosecution Seeks Bench Warrant
During Wednesday’s proceedings, prosecution counsel Rafiu Balogun informed the court that the matter was scheduled for arraignment.
He urged the court to issue a bench warrant against Saraki for allegedly failing to appear despite being served with court processes.
Balogun also opposed the defence’s request for an adjournment. He insisted that Saraki’s physical presence remained necessary for the case to proceed.
Defence Challenges Court’s Jurisdiction
However, Saraki’s counsel, Jimoh Mumini (SAN), challenged the competence of the case.
He argued that the Kwara State High Court lacked jurisdiction to hear the matter. Instead, he maintained that the case should have been filed before the Federal High Court.
The defence also questioned whether Saraki had received proper service of the court documents.
Court Fixes July 3 for Jurisdiction Hearing
After a two-hour recess, the presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Folorunso, ruled that the defendant had the right to seek an adjournment.
The judge subsequently fixed July 3, 2026, to hear the preliminary objection challenging the court’s jurisdiction. The court may also consider Saraki’s arraignment on the same date.
Political Tension Deepens in Kwara
The latest legal battle marks another chapter in the long-running political rivalry between Saraki’s camp and Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration.
Political observers expect the case to attract significant attention because its outcome could influence Kwara State’s political landscape ahead of future elections and possible political realignments.
As the July 3 hearing approaches, attention will focus on whether the court has the authority to hear the case before any further proceedings begin.
