Rights Group Commends Police, Urges Probe Of Ex-Minister’s Accuser

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has commended the police over its investigation into Hadiza Musa Baffa’s accusation against former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN).

The group also urged the police to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into a fresh complaint involving Ms Baffa, who it alleged received money from several individuals under the guise of facilitating Saudi Arabian visas for the lesser Hajj (Umrah).

In a statement released in Abuja and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, on Monday, the rights group commended the police for what it described as “professional and diligent handling” of the complaint so far, urging them to ensure due process and transparency throughout the investigation.

According to information cited by the Association, some complainants have accused Ms Baffa of collecting about ₦16m for visa processing. When the visas reportedly failed to materialise, they filed a direct criminal complaint before a Magistrate Court in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which then referred the matter to the Zuba Police Division for investigation.

HURIWA said it was informed that the suspect was invited for questioning, where she allegedly admitted to receiving funds from some of the complainants and requested time to refund the money before being released on bail.

The group added that reports later indicated she could not be reached, prompting further police efforts to trace her.

Messages sent to Ms Baffa were not responded to. Also, calls made to her telephone number were repeatedly paused.

Meanwhile, HURIWA said, “The allegations are serious and should be treated with the utmost urgency,” Onwubiko said.

“We urge the police to investigate thoroughly, ensure accountability, and prosecute the matter before the appropriate court of law in accordance with due process.”

The Association also referenced its earlier briefing of September 2, in which it addressed previous controversies involving Ms Baffa and a former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN).

“At that time, we clarified that the police had already investigated the earlier allegations and found no wrongdoing on the part of the former minister,” the statement noted. “We also confirmed that relevant parties had withdrawn previous petitions and issued written apologies.”

HURIWA further recalled that a recent ruling of an Upper Area Court in Abuja had granted an injunction restraining Ms Baffa from publishing or circulating any statements linking her child’s paternity to Mr Turaki.

Quoting the judgment delivered on September 4, 2025, by Judge Adamu Isah, the Association said the court prohibited the dissemination of such claims on any platform, stressing that the order was meant to curb the spread of unverified or defamatory statements through social and digital media.

“The court’s ruling reinforces the need for responsible communication and respect for the rule of law,” Onwubiko added. “The misuse of digital platforms to spread unverified allegations undermines justice and public confidence.”

HURIWA reaffirmed its confidence in the Nigeria Police Force to handle the ongoing investigation fairly and professionally, while also urging members of the public to exercise caution and verify information before engaging in financial transactions.

“The law must take its full course in this matter. Allegations involving financial dealings and public trust deserve impartial investigation to ensure that justice is served,” the group said.