By Khalid Idris Doya
Bauchi, Nigeria — January 8, 2026(Series news online)
A Bauchi-based legal practitioner, Barrister Zubairu A. Bube, has initiated pre-litigation proceedings against Isiaka Mohammed Aliyu and his company, I.A. Makayye, following what he terms a "malicious" and "defamatory" article published by Sahara Reporters on December 26, 2025. Bube is demanding an immediate retraction and a public apology within seven days, threatening legal action for libel if his demands are not met.
"My attention has been drawn to a publication by Sahara Reporters titled ‘How Bauchi Governor’s Nephew allegedly used courts, lawyers to remand EFCC witness in N4.6 Billion fraud case’ dated 26th December, 2025," Bube stated. He contends that the publication, which mentions him and his firm, DM Abejeme & Partners, is "false, malicious, and calculated to malign his person and professional integrity."
The dispute stems from Bube's prior legal representation of Aliyu. "For the avoidance of doubt and to set the record straight, the allegations attributed against me... are in connection to one Isiaka Mohammed Aliyu... whom I once represented in my legal capacity in Suit No: BA/688M/24," Bube clarified. He explained that he was initially engaged to secure Aliyu's release on bail and was later formally briefed to defend him in a fundamental rights enforcement suit.
According to Bube, Aliyu voluntarily deposed to a counter-affidavit, which Bube prepared based on his client's instructions, confirming his full awareness of the financial transactions central to the case. "He personally read the counter affidavit... being a literate adult, before appending his signature," Bube asserted. "To now allege deception or fabrication of court processes is not only false but intellectually dishonest."
Bube vehemently denied the article's claim that he received a Honda Accord as a form of gratification. "The allegation that I colluded with Muntaka Mohammed Duguri or received a Honda Accord... from him as gratification is a barefaced lie. I purchased and have been driving the said vehicle since July 2023, long before I ever heard the name Muntaka Mohammed Duguri," he explained.
He further alleged that his professional relationship with Aliyu soured after he refused to participate in a purported scheme to implicate public officials for financial gain. "I firmly declined and advised him to desist and do what is right. My refusal and insistence on ethical conduct angered him and eventually led to his debriefing me," Bube remarked.
In his final demand, Bube issued a clear ultimatum. "In the event you disdain the content of this letter, I shall be left with no option but to become on judiciary the last hope of the common man with legal action to seek redress, which cost and consequences will be borne by your organization." This move echoes actions taken by other public figures who have threatened or filed lawsuits against media outlets for alleged defamation.
Tags
legal suit