The legal battle between the Kwara State Government and National Pilot Newspaper, along with its reporter, Ahmed Ajikobi, faced a setback today as Magistrate Shade Lawal, overseeing the case, was absent due to bereavement and indisposition.
Amidst deliberations, legal representatives for both parties agreed on a new court date, and the proceedings have been adjourned to February 12, 2024.
In the previous session, the prosecution, led by Barrister S.O Ibrahim, filed an application requesting the court to transfer the matter to the police for investigation.
However, the Magistrate declined, expressing concerns about potential delays and a lack of control over the investigation.
Meanwhile, on Monday, members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Civil Society Organizations, and the public rallied in solidarity at the court premises.
NUJ Chairman, Ahmed ‘Lanre Abdulateef, affirmed the union’s support for National Pilot, stating, “An injury to one is an injury to all. We’re here in solidarity to ensure that the media in the state enjoys the protection of NUJ.”
Emphasizing the crucial role of the media, Abdulateef suggested alternative dispute resolution for cases like this.
He expressed that matters, even those involving alleged defamation, could be resolved through dialogue rather than legal battles.
The accusations against National Pilot Newspaper stemmed from its front-page report on May 15, 2023, titled “Kwara Gov, Siblings Battle Over New Cabinet List, Other Appointments * Abdul Razaq keeps people guessing over cabinet dissolution.”
Additionally, an online report on October 16, 2023, with the headline “Exclusive: Public Officials Cry Foul As Kwara Govt Allegedly Returns Multi-million Naira Defective Vehicles Purchased for Top Functionaries to Motor Dealer,” sparked the legal dispute.
State Commissioner for Communication, Bola Olukoju, responded on behalf of the government, offering extensive commentary on the matter.
