The Magistrate Court sitting in Ilorin has dismissed the criminal conspiracy and defamation case filed against journalists from The Informant247 by the Kwara State Polytechnic and the Nigerian Police.
The ruling, delivered by Magistrate Adebayo Qudus, comes after an 11-month legal battle.The court struck out the case, citing abuse of court process and lack of diligent prosecution.
Despite repeated court appearances since February 7, 2024, the prosecution failed to present any evidence to substantiate claims that the investigative reports published by The Informant247 were false.The case stemmed from two investigative pieces published by the media outlet: “Just a Paint Job: Inside Kwara Polytechnic’s Shoddy Project Commissioning (Part 1)” and “How Kwara Polytechnic Rector Made False Claims About Institution’s Financial Status, Commissioned Shoddy, Uncompleted Projects.”These reports prompted the Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic, Engineer Abdul Jimoh Muhammed, to file a complaint alleging defamation and criminal conspiracy.
Following the complaint, police arrested and detained two journalists, Salihu Ayatullahi, Editor-in-Chief, and Adisa-Jaji Azeez, Managing Director, on February 6, 2024.In addition, the publication’s Publisher, Salihu Shola Taofeek, and another reporter, Abdulrahaman Taye, were also named in the suit.Speaking after the court’s decision, media rights advocates applauded the ruling as a victory for press freedom and investigative journalism in Nigeria.
The case highlights ongoing challenges faced by journalists who expose alleged corruption and mismanagement in public institutions.This judgment reinforces the importance of accountability and underscores the role of journalism in promoting transparency within Kwara State and beyond.
Source:Newkwara Media
