Court orders PDP factional chairman Turaki’s arrest after a Federal Capital Territory High Court ruled that Kabiru Tanimu Turaki had no justification for failing to appear for his arraignment in a criminal case filed by the Inspector-General of Police.
The order was issued by Justice U.P. Kekemeke, who directed that a bench warrant be executed to compel his attendance in court.
Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, a former Minister and factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is facing legal proceedings stemming from allegations that he provided false information to the police.
The case was initiated through a one-count charge filed by the Inspector-General of Police.
The matter has been part of ongoing legal proceedings within the Federal Capital Territory High Court, with earlier hearings affected by Turaki’s absence.
The case reflects broader internal and legal challenges involving factions within the PDP, which has experienced leadership disputes in recent months.
During the latest hearing, the prosecution informed the court that the defendant was expected to be present for arraignment but failed to appear despite being duly served with court documents and hearing notices.
The prosecution subsequently requested the court to issue a bench warrant to ensure his appearance.
Counsel to the defendant, Abdulaziz Ibrahim, SAN, told the court that Turaki’s absence was linked to a petition submitted to the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court.
The petition reportedly sought the transfer of the case to another judge, raising concerns about confidence in the current proceedings.
However, the court held that such a petition does not automatically halt criminal proceedings unless a directive is issued by the Chief Judge.
The judge maintained that the defendant was aware of the charges and had no valid reason for failing to attend court.
Justice Kekemeke therefore ruled that court orders PDP factional chairman Turaki’s arrest, emphasising that the absence was unjustified and that the law permits the court to compel attendance in such circumstances.
The court also declined an application by the defence seeking to strike out the charges, noting that such requests could only be considered after the defendant has taken his plea.
The court referenced provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, which allow a judge to issue a bench warrant where a defendant who is aware of charges fails to appear.
Following the ruling, the case was adjourned to April 22 for arraignment, when Turaki is expected to appear before the court to take his plea.
The development that court orders PDP factional chairman Turaki’s arrest adds a legal dimension to ongoing political developments within the PDP.
As a prominent figure within one faction of the party, Turaki’s case intersects with broader issues of party leadership and internal disputes.
The proceedings also highlight the judiciary’s role in enforcing compliance with criminal processes, particularly in cases involving high-profile political figures.
The outcome of the case may influence both legal accountability discussions and internal party dynamics.
