The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja has ordered the arrest of Kabiru Turaki, a factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), following his failure to appear before the court in an ongoing case filed against him by the Nigeria Police Force.
The presiding judge, Justice U.P. Kekemeke, issued the arrest order on Thursday after ruling that Turaki, a former minister, did not provide any valid justification for his absence in court. The development marks a significant turn in the legal proceedings, which stem from allegations brought against the PDP chieftain by the police.
According to court records, the Inspector-General of Police had instituted a one-count charge against Turaki, accusing him of providing false information to law enforcement authorities. The allegation is linked to a petition he reportedly submitted in October 2022, which the police claim contained misleading or inaccurate claims.
At the resumed hearing, Turaki’s absence became a focal point of proceedings, prompting the court to assess whether there were sufficient grounds to excuse his non-appearance. Justice Kekemeke, in his ruling, held that no convincing reason had been presented to justify Turaki’s failure to attend court, leading to the issuance of a warrant for his arrest.
The judge emphasised the importance of respecting court processes, noting that all parties involved in a legal matter are obligated to appear as required, except where a valid excuse has been duly communicated and accepted by the court. He maintained that allowing such absence without consequence would undermine the integrity of the judicial system.
Legal observers note that an arrest warrant in such circumstances is typically issued to compel the attendance of a defendant who has failed to honour court summons. The warrant authorises law enforcement agencies to take the individual into custody and present them before the court to continue the trial.
The case against Turaki centres on allegations that he knowingly provided false information to the police, an offence that carries legal consequences under Nigerian law. While details of the petition in question have not been fully disclosed in open court, the charge suggests that the police believe the information supplied was intended to mislead or influence an investigation.
Turaki, a prominent political figure and former minister, has been involved in internal party dynamics within the PDP, where factional leadership disputes have persisted in recent times. His designation as a factional national chairman reflects ongoing divisions within the party, although these issues are separate from the criminal proceedings currently before the court.
Efforts to obtain an official response from Turaki or his legal representatives were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report. It remains unclear whether he will challenge the arrest order or provide reasons for his earlier absence at the next sitting.
Meanwhile, legal analysts say the case highlights the broader principle that no individual, regardless of status or political affiliation, is above the law. They stress that compliance with court orders is essential for the proper functioning of the justice system and for maintaining public confidence in legal institutions.
The Nigeria Police Force, as the complainant in the matter, is expected to take steps to enforce the court’s directive. This may involve locating and apprehending Turaki to ensure his appearance at the next hearing date.
As the case progresses, attention is likely to focus on both the substance of the charge and Turaki’s response to the arrest order. The outcome could have implications not only for the individuals involved but also for public perceptions of accountability and the rule of law.
The court is expected to fix a new date for the continuation of the trial, during which further proceedings will determine the next phase of the case. For now, the arrest order underscores the judiciary’s insistence on adherence to due process and its willingness to take decisive action when court directives are not followed.
