Ganduje and Wife to Face Trial for Alleged Bribery, Court Rejects Application
Court Clears Way for Prosecution
A Kano State High Court has cleared the path for the prosecution of former Kano State Governor and APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and his wife, Professor Hafsat Ganduje. The court rejected their recent application, effectively allowing the state government to proceed with its case involving serious allegations of corruption and bribery.
Charges of Dollar Bribes and Fund Diversion
The Kano State Government has filed an eight-count charge against Ganduje, his wife, their son, and several companies. The charges include allegations that Ganduje collected a $200,000 bribe from a contractor and received an additional $213,000 kickback during his tenure as governor. The funds, initially earmarked for public projects, were allegedly diverted for personal gain.
Arraigned in Absentia
In 2024, the accused failed to appear in court despite summons, leading the court to arraign them in absentia. Justice Amina Adamu Aliyu approved substituted service via newspaper publications after the defendants continued to ignore court invitations.
Public Pressure Mounts on EFCC
A coalition of over 30 civil society groups has demanded that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) act swiftly. The coalition has called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of Ganduje, criticizing the EFCC’s silence as the matter gains national attention.
Next Court Date Set
The case, which is being closely watched across Nigeria, has been adjourned for hearing on all pending preliminary objections on April 15, 2025. Legal observers say the outcome could set a significant precedent in Nigeria’s fight against high-profile corruption.
