A Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin has scheduled July 22, 2026, for the arraignment of former Senate President Dr.Bukola Saraki on charges of criminal defamation.The court ruled that the case is triable under Section 399 of the Penal Code, Cap.P4, Laws of Kwara State, 2006.

The prosecution alleges that Saraki made false statements on social media and in newspapers claiming Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq was uneducated, which the state claims was intended to insult and provoke the governor, risking public peace.

Saraki's legal team argued the case should not be heard in the state High Court, citing jurisdictional issues, but the judge dismissed these claims, affirming the court's territorial jurisdiction.

The court also ruled that Saraki's physical presence is not required for interlocutory applications, rejecting his request to defer the arraignment.The judge emphasized the case is not politically motivated, ensuring the defamation charge remains valid.The adjournment to July 22 marks the next step in the legal process.