The Kwara State High Court has declined a request by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's legal team to issue an arrest warrant against Bukola Saraki, the former governor of Kwara State and ex-President of the Nigerian Senate. The court also rejected Saraki's argument that it lacked jurisdiction to hear the case, adjourning proceedings to July 22.
Court Ruling and Jurisdiction Dispute
Presiding over the matter, the judge ruled that the request for an arrest warrant was not warranted at this stage. However, the court dismissed Saraki's preliminary objection challenging its jurisdiction to entertain the criminal defamation and cyberbullying suit filed by Governor AbdulRazaq. Saraki's legal team had argued that the court lacked territorial jurisdiction, as the alleged offence occurred online and outside Kwara State.
According to the media office of the former Senate president, Saraki has directed his lawyers to file an appeal against the jurisdiction ruling at the Court of Appeal with immediate effect. The statement emphasized that the issue of jurisdiction is fundamental and must be resolved before the substantive case can proceed.
Background of the Legal Battle
The suit stems from a social media post by Saraki that Governor AbdulRazaq claims is defamatory and constitutes cyberbullying. The governor's counsel had sought an arrest warrant, arguing that Saraki had failed to appear in court for arraignment. Saraki's team countered that the court lacked jurisdiction and that the charges were politically motivated.
Public reactions have been mixed, with many Nigerians questioning the use of criminal defamation laws in political disputes. Commentator Modern Love remarked, "Going to court over a social media post? The political rivalry in Kwara is on a completely different level." Another user, Emmanuel C. Akudolu, stated, "All for what? Just a mere distraction. Someone of that calibre who has managed many sensitive positions is now called out for this? Kwara government must be very unintelligent."
Political Motivations Alleged
Kayode Shittu alleged that Governor AbdulRazaq had previously defamed Saraki without consequence, saying, "Over the years, the Governor has been humiliating Saraki by saying that he sponsored the Offa robbery without any evidence; now that he said just this in his last press release about you, the next thing is to take him to court." Others, like Oscar, criticized the governor's priorities, questioning the state's infrastructure development.
The case has highlighted the deep political rivalry in Kwara State between Saraki and AbdulRazaq, both former allies who have become adversaries. Saraki, who served as governor from 2003 to 2011 and later as Senate President, remains a influential figure in Kwara politics.
Next Steps and Broader Implications
Saraki's appeal will be heard at the Court of Appeal, with the next hearing in the High Court set for July 22. Legal experts note that the appeal could delay proceedings significantly. The case has sparked debate about the use of criminal defamation laws in Nigeria, with critics arguing they are often weaponized against political opponents.
This legal battle comes amid broader security concerns in Nigeria. Saraki recently condemned attacks in Oyo State, where children and teachers were kidnapped and one murdered within five days. His statement on insecurity drew widespread reactions, with many Nigerians expressing frustration over the government's handling of security.
