JUST IN: Court Vacates Arrest Warrant Against PDP Factional Chairman Turaki

An Abuja High Court on Wednesday vacated a bench warrant issued for the arrest of the factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), “,”Kabiru Turaki”,”Nigerian politician”], originally issued on March 26.

Justice Peter Kekemeke made the ruling following an oral application by Turaki’s lawyer, Chris Uche (SAN), after Turaki appeared in court.

During proceedings, Uche apologised for his absence at the last hearing, explaining that he had been out of the country but returned earlier on Wednesday and went straight to the court.

He also apologised on behalf of Turaki, describing him as a senior advocate who holds the court in high regard.

Uche emphasised that Turaki’s prior absence was neither intentional nor an attempt to disrespect the court, and to show good faith, he withdrew the motion on notice filed by Turaki seeking a stay of execution of the arrest warrant. He added that his client was ready to take his plea on the pending charge.

The prosecution’s counsel, Usman Rabiu, confirmed he had no objection to the applications, noting that the purpose of the arrest warrant—to secure Turaki’s appearance in court—had been fulfilled.

“Since he is present, we are not opposed to his being arraigned today,” Rabiu said.

Justice Kekemeke noted that Turaki had attended court voluntarily before the warrant could be executed, and that his lawyer had tendered an apology, even though the reason for the prior absence was not fully clear. The judge exercised discretion to pardon Turaki and formally vacated the arrest warrant.

The judge further ruled that since Wednesday was scheduled for the hearing of Turaki’s motion on notice, it was inappropriate to proceed with his arraignment.

Consequently, the court also struck out the motion seeking a stay of execution of the warrant after it was withdrawn.

Justice Kekemeke adjourned the matter to April 22 for Turaki’s arraignment on a one-count charge (CR/647/2026) brought against him by the Inspector General of Police.

The March 26 warrant had been issued after Turaki failed to appear for arraignment on charges including giving false information to the police.