A Kwara State Upper Area Court sitting in Ganmo has ordered the remand of prominent Islamic preacher, Alhaja Kafilat Kaola, at the Oke Kura Correctional Centre in Ilorin, pending further hearing in a defamation case brought against her by fellow cleric Alfa Taofeek Akeugbagold.
The case, which came up in court on Monday, centres on allegations of defamation stemming from public remarks allegedly made by Alhaja Kaola against Akeugbagold.
Kafilat Kaola: Bail request denied
During the session, Kaola’s legal counsel made a passionate plea for bail, urging the court to release the cleric on self-recognizance, citing her standing as a respected religious leader, and her role as the proprietor of an Islamic educational institution.
The defence stressed that she posed no flight risk and had cooperated with the legal process thus far.
Plaintiff opposes bail with video evidence
However, opposing counsel Ajasa Ademola, representing Akeugbagold, objected to the bail motion. Ademola argued that Alhaja Kaola was not deserving of leniency, citing her alleged involvement in a prior similar offence.
He further presented a widely circulated video clip in court, allegedly showing the defendant publicly making derogatory statements against a judge and legal practitioner, both linked to a previous case involving her.
“Individuals who openly disrespect and attack the judiciary should not be granted bail,” Ademola stated, referencing relevant provisions under Nigerian legal statutes.
He insisted that her behaviour reflected a pattern of disregard for judicial authority and posed a threat to the sanctity of the legal process.
Court’s ruling
After listening to submissions from both legal teams, the presiding judge ordered Alhaja Kaola to be remanded at the Oke Kura Correctional Centre.
The court also adjourned the matter to July 17, 2025, for continuation of proceedings.
The ruling has generated mixed reactions, especially within the religious community in Kwara State, with supporters of both clerics keenly watching the outcome of what is shaping up to be a high-profile legal battle.
