Police Seek to Reopen False Information Case Against PDP Factional Chairman Turaki

Prosecutors seek court approval to call additional witnesses against Tanimu Turaki, after closing their case with just one witness

The prosecution has asked an FCT High Court for permission to reopen its case against the factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Tanimu Turaki, and call additional witnesses despite having earlier closed its case with just one witness.

The application was presented on Wednesday by prosecuting counsel, Usman Aliyu, who asked the court to allow the prosecution to present further evidence in the case in which Turaki is accused of giving false information to the police.

Aliyu argued the additional witnesses and evidence were necessary to ensure a fair prosecution, urging the court to grant the application in the interest of justice.

The prosecution had closed its case on June 18 after calling a single witness.

However, Turaki’s defence counsel, Abdulaziz Ibrahim, opposed the application, urging the court to dismiss it with substantial costs.

Ibrahim argued that the prosecution should not be allowed to reopen its case simply because it had changed its position, recalling that it had earlier informed the court that it was satisfied with the testimony of its sole witness.

He also said the prosecution had failed to provide sufficient grounds to justify calling additional witnesses and presenting further evidence.

The defence lawyer further alleged that the application was intended to delay the proceedings and subject Turaki to unnecessary trial-related pressure.

Justice Peter Kekemeke has adjourned the matter until November 2 to rule on whether the prosecution will be allowed to reopen its case.

Turaki is facing a one-count charge brought by the Inspector-General of Police over an allegation of giving false information to the police. The charge remains an allegation, and the court has yet to determine the case.