A former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Mashood Mustapha, was on Monday arraigned before the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin on charges of criminal defamation against Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, following comments he made in the aftermath of the demolition of his multi-billion-naira commercial complex, Crystal Place.
The prosecution stems from a viral video released by Mustapha on October 6, 2024, shortly after the state government ordered the demolition of the property situated on Ahmadu Bello Way, Ilorin.
In the video, Mustapha accused the AbdulRazaq-led administration of acting out of “political vendetta,” alleging that the demolition was aimed at crippling his investments due to his political differences with the governor.
“This government is out to destroy everything I have built,” Mustapha, who holds the traditional title of Wakilin Ilorin Emirate, stated emotionally in the video.
The controversial demolition took place barely three hours after tenants of the facility were reportedly served a quit notice. Mustapha insisted that the structure had valid government approvals and was legally constructed.
However, the state government, through the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, maintained that the demolition affected only parts of the structure that violated urban planning regulations, particularly government setbacks. He claimed that even the main building encroached on over 550 square metres of government land.
“The schematic diagram was clear. Structures outside the red line fell outside the Certificate of Occupancy and violated the setback,” Ajakaye said.
Mustapha and his associate, Bolakale Mustapha—who was also arraigned for allegedly circulating the defamatory video—both pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Mustapha’s legal team, led by Prof. Kayode Olatoke (SAN), and supported by Emeka Etiaba (SAN), Jimoh Adebimpe Abdulmumini, George Ibrahim, Lanre Abdul and Sadiq Abdulbaki, contested the allegations.
Bolakale was represented by another team led by Moses Ebute (SAN), alongside Tafa Ahmed and David James.
Presiding Judge, Justice Abdulgafar, granted both defendants bail in the sum of ₦5 million each, with one surety in like sum. The case was adjourned to July 18, 2025, for further hearing.
The unfolding legal tussle has ignited political tension in the state, with residents and civil groups divided over whether the government acted within the law or crossed the line into political persecution.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
