A woman engaged in a paternity dispute with former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs Kabiru Turaki (SAN) has requested a Federal High Court in Abuja to deny his request to halt the presentation of DNA test results. Ms. Hadiza Musa Baffa found herself embroiled in a paternity controversy involving her baby, resulting in criminal charges of false marriage, adultery, and related offenses against Turaki following their alleged cohabitation from December 2014 to August 2016. The case was adjourned to February 18 by Justice Inyang Ekwo to allow respondents, including the Nigerian Police Force, the Inspector General of Police, and DCP Rita Oki Oyintare, to file a motion explaining why the ex-minister’s application should not be approved. Counsel for Baffa, Usman Chamo, confirmed the filing of an affidavit and a counter affidavit in response to the originating motion.
The Affidavit and Allegations
In the affidavit, Hadiza Baffa argued that granting Turaki’s application would unfairly impact her and her child, causing irreparable harm. She claimed that the ex-minister filed the suit with malicious intent upon learning that the DNA test was essential evidence in a Magistrate Court case, with results indicating a 99.9% probability of Turaki being the biological father. Baffa contested the restraining order mentioned by Turaki, alleging it was obtained ex parte through misrepresentation to prevent the police from accepting her complaint, a judgment later overturned by an Upper Area Court judge. She emphasized that the DNA test was crucial to resolving the paternity issue accurately and fairly. Baffa’s account portrayed a cooperative and respectful interaction with authorities at the Police Headquarters, contrasting Turaki’s assertions.
Turaki’s Motion and Allegations
Turaki, in a motion dated February 11, 2025, sought an interim injunction restraining the police from using or disclosing DNA paternity test results from DNA Labs Limited, conducted on November 5, 2024, or any subsequent date. He claimed that DCP Oyintare detained him for six hours at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Abuja’s Garki Area 10, coercing a swab sample for the DNA test despite his objections. Turaki alleged that the sample was collected against his will by a scientist on behalf of DCP Oyintare before he was released around 10 pm that day.
The situation between Hadiza Baffa and Kabiru Turaki underscores the complexities and emotional toll of legal battles, especially when intertwined with personal relationships. The court proceedings shed light on the intricacies of paternity disputes and the importance of DNA evidence in resolving such cases. The allegations and counter-allegations highlight the need for a fair and transparent legal process to safeguard the rights and interests of all parties involved. As the case unfolds, the quest for truth and justice remains paramount, balancing legal technicalities with human emotions and relationships. The outcome of this dispute will not only impact the individuals involved but also set a precedent for similar cases in the future.
