A Kano State High Court has scheduled April 17, 2024, for the arraignment of the immediate past governor of the state, Abdullahi Ganduje, along with his wife, son, and five others, over alleged bribery charges.
Ganduje and the co-accused will face eight counts, including allegations of a $413,000 bribery scheme, as well as diversion and misappropriation of funds amounting to N1.38 billion.
Previously, the Federal High Court in Kano ruled that the Kano Public Compliant and Anti-Corruption Commission lacked jurisdiction to investigate Ganduje concerning an alleged $5 million bribery video. The court stated that such offences fall under federal jurisdiction and could be prosecuted by the Attorney General of the Federation and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
In response, the state governor, Abba Yusuf, urged the EFCC to reveal the outcome of its investigation into the alleged bribery video involving Ganduje. He emphasized that Ganduje should focus on preparing for his trial instead of discussing non-existent failures in the current administration.
In a writ of summons issued on Tuesday, the Kano State Government initiated a criminal suit against Ganduje, his family members, and others. The case, presided over by Justice Usman Na’aba, is slated for April 17, 2024, at the state High Court Number Four.
Confirming the development, the state Attorney General, Haruna Dederi, asserted that the case had been filed, and all parties would be duly served. He emphasized the importance of accountability, stating that no one can evade the consequences of their actions indefinitely.
