A Kwara State High Court in Ilorin has set July 22, 2026, as the date for the arraignment of former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, regarding defamation charges filed by the Kwara State Government against Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. Justice M.O. Folorunsho ruled on Friday that the court holds the necessary territorial jurisdiction to preside over the case.
The legal proceedings stem from accusations that Saraki published disparaging remarks on social media and in newspapers on April 17, 2026. The charges claim Saraki falsely alleged that Governor AbdulRazaq lacked a secondary school education, an act the state argues was intended to provoke the public and incite unrest, violating Section 399 of the Kwara State Penal Code.
Representing Saraki, T.A. Ahmed had argued for the dismissal of the charges, citing issues such as improper service and a lack of court jurisdiction. However, prosecution lawyer Rafiu Balogun countered that the application was without merit. Justice Folorunsho ultimately dismissed the defense’s motion, stating that the criminal defamation charges remain valid and that the case is not politically motivated. The court further denied the request to defer the arraignment, solidifying the July date for the defendant to appear.
