The Upper Shari’a Court in Kano, presided over by Judge Ibrahim Sarki Yola, has exonerated Auwal Danladi Sankara, the Jigawa State Commissioner of Special Duties, from allegations of adultery.
The case was brought against Sankara by Nasiru Buba, who accused him of having an illicit relationship with his wife, Tasleem Baba Nabegu.
In delivering the verdict, Sarki Yola stressed the importance of thorough investigations by law enforcement and regulatory agencies, such as the Hisbah Commission, particularly when dealing with accusations against high-profile individuals. The judge highlighted the potential reputational damage that could arise from baseless claims.
“Following the investigation by the office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police, the report shows there is no evidence to prove that there was any illicit affair between Auwal Danladi Sankara and Tasleem Baba Nabegu,” the judge declared.
Lack of Contestation by Complainant
The court further observed that neither Nasiru Buba nor his legal representatives were present to contest the findings of the police investigation. The absence of the complainant left the court with no basis to proceed.
“Since the complainant and his lawyers are not present to challenge the submission by the police, I have no choice but to strike out the case,” Sarki Yola stated.
Defense Counsel’s Reaction
Barrister Sadam Suleiman, counsel to Sankara, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision. He reiterated the consistent stance of his client’s innocence and commended the judiciary for upholding justice.
“We have always maintained that our client is innocent. The court has affirmed this by clearing his name based on the police investigation,” Suleiman remarked.
Potential Defamation Case
On behalf of Tasleem Baba Nabegu, her counsel, Rabiu Shu’aibu, suggested the possibility of pursuing legal action against Nasiru Buba for defamation. Shu’aibu argued that the allegations had caused reputational harm to his client.
“We will discuss with our client to explore the possibility of filing a case against Nasiru Buba, as he has defamed her name,” Shu’aibu noted.
Background of the Allegations
The case began when Nasiru Buba accused Sankara of engaging in an extramarital affair with his wife, Tasleem Baba Nabegu. The matter attracted public attention, particularly due to Sankara’s status as a government official. However, after investigations conducted by the police, no evidence was found to support the claims.
The judgment reinforces the need for meticulous handling of allegations against prominent individuals and serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of unfounded accusations.
