PDP Factional Chairman Turaki Arraigned, Gets N100m Bail

Written By Adaeze Chisom

Factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Tanimu Turaki, has been arraigned before a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory sitting in Maitama, Abuja, over allegations of providing false information to the police.

Turaki was brought before the court on Wednesday on a one-count charge filed by the Inspector General of Police, accusing him of submitting a petition dated October 5, 2022, against one Saidi Mohammed Mainasara with the intent to use police authority to cause harm or annoyance.

According to the prosecution, the alleged offence is punishable under Section 140 of the Penal Code Law.

When the charge was read, Turaki pleaded not guilty, prompting the prosecution counsel, Usman Rabiu, to request a date for the commencement of trial.

Counsel to the defendant, Abdulaziz Ibrahim (SAN), urged the court to grant bail, arguing that his client did not evade service as claimed by the prosecution but was out of town at the time. He noted that Turaki had earlier appeared in court voluntarily and apologised for his absence at a previous sitting.

The defence further described Turaki as an elder statesman, former minister, and respected community leader, urging the court to grant bail on self-recognition.

In his ruling, Justice Peter Kekemeke held that bail is a fundamental right and within the court’s discretion. He noted that although a bench warrant had earlier been issued against the defendant, it was vacated after Turaki voluntarily appeared in court.

The court subsequently granted Turaki bail in the sum of ₦100 million, with conditions to be met ahead of the trial.

The case has been adjourned for the commencement of hearing.