Court Remands ABU Lecturer Over Alleged False Hajj Claim Against Katsina Govt

A Chief Magistrate Court in Katsina has ordered the remand of an Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) lecturer and public affairs commentator, Dr. Bashir Kurfi, over allegations that he falsely claimed the Katsina State Government sponsored Hajj pilgrimage for some bandit leaders.

Dr. Kurfi was arraigned on charges of defamation and injurious falsehood following remarks he allegedly made during a television interview in which he claimed the state government facilitated the pilgrimage of certain bandit leaders.

The prosecution argued that the comments were false, malicious and capable of inciting public distrust while damaging the reputation of the Katsina State Government. It urged the court to remand the defendant pending the conclusion of police investigations.

Counsel to the defendant opposed the application and requested that the court admit Dr. Kurfi to bail.

Ruling on the application, the Chief Magistrate granted the prosecution’s request and ordered that Dr. Kurfi be remanded in the custody of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) pending the continuation of investigations.

According to the First Information Report (FIR), the lecturer is facing two counts bordering on defamation and injurious falsehood under the Penal Code Law of Katsina State.

Dr. Kurfi pleaded not guilty to the charges. The court subsequently adjourned the matter until July 14, 2026, for further proceedings.