Yisa Usman Faces Trial as Out-of-Court Settlement Collapses Amid Allegations of Character Assassination and False Information
The Abuja High Court on Tuesday issued a stern warning to Yisa Usman, the dismissed deputy director of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), threatening to revoke his bail over conduct deemed improper. Justice H.A. Musa expressed dissatisfaction with Usman’s actions, which derailed an out-of-court settlement in a case involving allegations of character assassination and false information against a public servant.
Usman, the sole defendant in the case, was arraigned on October 24, 2024, after pleading not guilty to two counts of defaming Mabel Ishaku, a police officer deployed to INTERPOL, and providing false information to a public servant. The charges, filed by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), stem from incidents alleged to have occurred at JAMB’s Abuja headquarters in June 2022.
During Tuesday’s hearing, prosecution lawyer N. Orji informed the court that the out-of-court settlement advised by the court on December 10, 2024, had failed. She accused Usman of publishing a write-up that undermined the settlement process. Justice Musa, visibly displeased, warned Usman against disrespecting the court and emphasized that reconciliation efforts should not be taken lightly.
Usman, however, claimed he was unwilling to withdraw petitions he filed against JAMB’s chief executive officer, a condition reportedly demanded by Ishaku for settlement.
Ishaku denied making such demands, stating that it was Usman’s former lawyer who suggested reconciliation as the best option.
The judge ordered the trial to proceed, with Ishaku taking the stand as the first prosecution witness. She testified that Usman’s defamatory statements could harm her reputation and endanger her career as a police officer. The case has been adjourned to May 6, 13, and 14 for further hearing.
As the trial continues, Usman risks losing his bail if his conduct further disrupts court proceedings, adding tension to an already contentious legal battle.