Bukola Saraki

Following the deadly Offa robbery in April 2018, police described suspects as linked to Saraki's political network, while also stating that Saraki had no knowledge of the robbery. In April 2026, Kwara State filed a new twenty-count indictment against Saraki, former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and others.

Attribution

Accused

Kwara State initiated criminal defamation and cyberbullying proceedings against Saraki after posts challenging Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's university qualifications. In July 2026, the Kwara High Court dismissed Saraki's jurisdictional objection but refused to issue an immediate bench warrant.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Accused

In 2017, a report attributed to the EFCC alleged that Saraki, some aides and associates were linked to laundering approximately ₦3.5 billion from Paris Club refunds paid to states through the Nigeria Governors' Forum. Saraki was publicly linked to the investigation but was not convicted in the case.

State of the evidence

Allegations

In 2019, the EFCC obtained provisional forfeiture of two Saraki houses in Ilorin, alleging they had been financed with public funds misappropriated while he was governor. The agency subsequently sought final forfeiture.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Accused

Saraki was prosecuted before the Code of Conduct Tribunal on eighteen counts at the final stage, involving alleged false asset declarations, properties and financial interests. Following conflicting decisions by the tribunal and Court of Appeal, the Supreme Court ruled in July 2018.

Attribution

Accused

Course of the proceedings

1. Formally charged — Formal charge before the current outcome

In June 2015, Saraki was elected Senate President against the wishes of the APC leadership, which supported Ahmed Lawan, causing a major internal crisis. A related controversy subsequently arose over alleged forgery of the Standing Rules used when the Senate was inaugurated: Saraki, Ike Ekweremadu and two senior officials were charged in 2016.

Attribution

Accused

Course of the proceedings

1. Formally charged — Formal charge before the current outcome

The Panama Papers and ICIJ documented offshore companies, assets and financial relationships linked to Bukola Saraki or his wife, raising questions about the completeness of his asset declarations while holding public office.

State of the evidence

Disputed