The man’s family met with Senator Sheu Buba, the NSA reached out to the Kwara State Ministry of Justice
A wave of controversy has erupted in Abuja as senior government officials reportedly coordinate behind the scenes to secure the release of Alhaji Usman Adamu, widely known as Sarkin Fulani, who was convicted in December 2023 by Kwara’s High Court for kidnapping and sentenced to life in prison. The chief orchestrators allegedly include aides to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and Senator Sheu Buba from Bauchi, who purportedly lobbied the Kwara Ministry of Justice to soften its stance.
A judiciary insider said, “Surprisingly, he is trying to use all his connections in the government to ensure he is released.” The insider added that even the state’s prosecuting lawyer appeared compromised, noting he “said he could not see the files…”. While Adamu’s legal team has filed for bail on health grounds, a constitutional right, the insider accused the state counsel of aligning with defence arguments and warned, “If the situation does not change, he will be granted bail.” The Court of Appeal has adjourned the matter to October 7, 2025.