Barrister Saadatu Mohammad, counsel to Abdullahi Ibrahim Rogo, has raised concerns over the media trial of her client. Rogo, the Director General of Protocol to the Kano State Government, is facing corruption allegations.
The lawyer took issue with a headline run by Daily Nigerian, “Gov. Yusuf defends thieving aide, says protocol directorate under Ganduje spent N20 billion in 3 months.” She argued that this headline amounted to a conviction without trial.
Barrister Mohammad cited Section 36(5) of the Nigerian Constitution, which presumes a person innocent until proven guilty. She lamented that reckless reporting substitutes sensationalism for substance and tramples on constitutional safeguards.
The lawyer highlighted the human cost of media recklessness, noting that Rogo’s reputation and family are affected by unfounded allegations. She emphasized that Rogo has built a reputation over decades of public service and humanitarian work.
Barrister Mohammad pointed out that no court has found Rogo guilty of corruption. She cited a senior ICPC director’s clarification that the N6.5 billion figure was related to legitimate protocol operations, not stolen funds.
The High Court of Kano State has ruled in Rogo’s favor, stating that there’s no basis for harassment or intimidation since no evidence links him to corruption.
The lawyer enjoined the media to adhere to journalistic ethics and principles of objectivity and fairness. She emphasized that journalism should inform, not misinform, and that the media should defend truth and justice.
Rogo has taken legal action against Daily Nigerian, seeking to clear his name and uphold the principles of justice and fairness.