Dr. Bashir Kurfi, a public affairs commentator and former lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, Kaduna State, was on July 8, 2026, ordered to be remanded in police custody by Magistrate Zaharaddeen Kofar Soro following his arraignment by the Katsina State Police Command on charges of alleged defamation of character and injurious falsehood
According to media reports, Dr. Kurfi accused the Katsina State Government of sponsoring bandits to participate in Hajj pilgrimage. The First Information Report (FIR) said the lecturer allegedly made defamatory remarks during an interview on Trust TV on June 24, 2026.
The police arraigned him on two counts under Sections 308 and 309(1) of the Penal Code Law of Katsina, claiming that he alleged that the Katsina State Government sponsored Hajj pilgrimage for some bandit leaders, a statement the police described as false, malicious, and capable of tarnishing the image and reputation of the state government and the people of Katsina. The prosecutor further argued that the lecturer made the allegation knowing, or having reason to believe, that it would injure the reputation of the government and its citizens.
Dr. Kurfi pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Following his plea, the prosecution urged the court to remand him in police custody pending the conclusion of investigations, arguing that granting him bail at this stage could interfere with the investigation.
The Magistrate agreed and directed that the police continue their investigation and ordered that Dr. Kurfi should remain in police custody pending the adjourned date.
At the resumed hearing of the matter on July 13, counsel to the police prosecutor informed the court that investigations had been concluded and that the prosecution was ready to proceed to trial.
Mr A.D. Umar, the counsel to Dr Kurfi, renewed his application for bail, arguing that his client was entitled to bail pending the determination of the case.
In his ruling, Chief Magistrate Zaharaddeen Sani admitted Dr Kurfi to bail in the sum of ₦500,000, with two sureties. The Magistrate ordered that the sureties must own landed properties within Katsina metropolis, and that they would each be liable to forfeit ₦500,000 to the state in the event Dr Kurfi absconds or fails to appear before the court as required.
He thereafter adjourned the case to August 13, 2026, for commencement of hearing.
