The Digest:
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has denied fresh criminal charges filed by the Kwara State Government linking him to the 2018 Offa bank robbery that left at least 32 dead. Saraki described the 20-count charge as politically motivated and an abuse of judicial process. He cited previous federal investigations that cleared him, including legal opinions from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and two others are also charged.
Key Points:
- The Offa robbery remains one of Nigeria's deadliest bank heists, with 32 killed.
- Saraki claims charges were resurrected after he criticized the state government on insecurity.
- Federal investigations in 2018 found no nexus between Saraki and the crime.
- The Kwara Government cites weapons recovered from Government House as evidence.
- Five convicted offenders have death sentences upheld by the Court of Appeal.
Sources: Premium Times
