Kwara Govt Files Criminal Defamation Case Against Saraki Over AbdulRazaq Claim

The Kwara State Government has filed a criminal defamation case against former Senate President Bukola Saraki over comments reportedly linked to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s educational background.

The matter is before the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin, where prosecutors accused Saraki of making allegedly false and malicious statements in an April 17, 2026 social media and newspaper publication. The state said the comments were capable of disturbing public peace.

Punch reported that the case was filed by officials of the state Ministry of Justice, including Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Senior Ibrahim, Director of Public Prosecutions Ayoola Akande and Assistant Chief State Counsel B.L. Abdulsalam.

At the court sitting, prosecution counsel R.O. Balogun asked the court to issue a bench warrant after Saraki was absent. Punch quoted Balogun as saying, “The defendant was duly served but failed to appear before the court. We, therefore, urge Your Lordship to issue a bench warrant to compel his attendance.”

Saraki’s legal team challenged the court’s jurisdiction and the service of the processes. His counsel, Jimoh Mumini, SAN, was quoted by Punch as saying, “This matter falls within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court. In addition, the defendant was not properly served with the processes relied upon by the prosecution.”

The court adjourned the matter to July 3 for hearing of the preliminary objection and possible arraignment. Daily Post reported that Saraki also appealed to his supporters to remain calm and law-abiding through a statement by Abdulganiyu Abdulqadir.

The case remains at the allegation stage. Saraki has not been convicted, and the court is expected to first consider the objection raised by his lawyers before any possible arraignment.

Sources: Punch, Daily Post, SaharaReporters.