Former Minister, Turaki Granted N1m Bail Over Alleged False Marriage, Adultery

A magistrate court in Abuja has granted bail to Kabiru Turaki, a former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, in the sum of N1 million.

Turaki was on Friday arraigned on charges of false marriage, adultery, and criminal intimidation.

The charges against Turaki allege that he “deceitfully induced a belief of lawful marriage, adultery, and criminal intimidation, contrary to sections 383, 387, and 389 of the Penal Code.”

The prosecution’s case is based on a petition dated August 9, 2024, received by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police.

The court heard that Turaki cohabited with one Ms. Hadiza Musa Bafta at various locations in Abuja, including a hotel and a private residence, between 2014 and 2021.

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He allegedly made her believe they were married and had a child together.

However, Turaki denied paternity and threatened to harm Ms. Bafta and their child.

Turaki pleaded not guilty to the charges, and his lawyer, A. I. Mohammed, applied for bail, which was granted by the presiding magistrate, Abubakar Jega.

The bail conditions require Turaki to provide two sureties, who must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and provide evidence of their residences.

The case has been adjourned until March 11 for the commencement of trial.