Due Process Not Media Trial: Here’s What Really Happened
PDP Disputes Media Reports on Chairman’s Court Absence
The Peoples Democratic Party has strongly rejected a recent media report suggesting its National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki SAN, evaded court proceedings, describing the account as politically motivated and legally inaccurate.
In a detailed statement, the opposition party clarified that neither the PDP nor Mr Turaki are defendants in the criminal case referenced as Charge No. FCT/HC/CR/647/2025, emphasizing that attempts to link the party to ongoing legal proceedings involving a private individual constitute what it termed “legal dishonesty.”
Constitutional Protections
The party’s statement outlined constitutional provisions governing criminal arraignment in Nigeria, citing Sections 36(1) and 36(6) of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee fair hearing and adequate preparation time for defence.
Legal experts have previously noted that Nigerian courts, including the Supreme Court in landmark cases such as Kajubo v. State and Eyorokoromo v. State, have established that procedural irregularities during arraignment can invalidate subsequent trials.
The PDP argued that filing petitions with judicial authorities, a right enshrined under Section 40 of the Constitution, should not be characterised as avoiding court, particularly when concerns about bias or procedural abuse are raised through proper legal channels.
Historical Context
The statement drew attention to what it described as inconsistent application of legal standards, referencing previous instances where court orders were not immediately complied with by government authorities.
Notable cases mentioned include prolonged delays in implementing bail orders for former National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki and Islamic Movement leader Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, both of which attracted significant legal and public commentary during their respective periods.
Political Dimensions
The opposition party suggested the matter carries broader political implications, particularly given the relationship between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and the ruling All Progressives Congress, despite Mr Wike’s membership in the PDP.
Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, who chairs the PDP Governors Forum, was quoted as reaffirming the party’s commitment to judicial independence and due process while rejecting what the party characterised as politically motivated prosecutions.
Legal analysts suggest the case highlights ongoing tensions between Nigeria’s opposition and ruling parties as the country approaches the 2027 electoral cycle, with questions about the independence of judicial processes remaining a recurring theme in Nigerian political discourse.
