Bribery allegation: Why trial of Ganduje, others is stalled

Failure of the Kano State government to serve criminal charges on the embattled National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, yesterday, stalled the arraignment of the former governor at the Kano State High Court.

Ganduje, who was to be arraigned alongside his wife, Hafsat; his son, Umar; and five others on eight counts bordering on bribery allegations, was conspicuously absent in the court. They were slated to face eight counts including a $413,000 bribery allegation, as well as the diversion and misappropriation of funds amounting to N1.38 billion.

When the matter came up before Justice Usman Na’Abba, only the 6th respondent, through his counsel, Nureini Jimoh (SAN), was present in court while the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 7th, and 8th respondents were absent.

Counsel to the Kano government, Ya’u Adamu, told the court that they could not serve the respondents personally.
Adamu, however, attempted to raise an ex parte application seeking to serve the respondents through substituted means, but counsel to the 6th respondent objected.

Jimoh told the prosecution to do their homework, noting that there was no provision for service on criminal charges by ex parte, vowing to challenge such a move at the Court of Appeal.

The presiding judge, Na’Abba, however, adjourned the matter till April 29, 2024 for continuation.

Kano government had dragged Ganduje, his wife, son and five others to court over alleged corruption and misappropriation of public funds.

Reacting to the delay, a source close to the defence team, expressed frustration, stating: “This delay is unnecessary and only prolongs the legal process. We are eager to clear our names and move forward.”

Meanwhile, supporters of the defendants gathered outside the courtroom, expressing solidarity and confidence in the legal process.

“We believe in the innocence of our leaders, and we trust that justice will prevail,” one supporter remarked.