The Kano State Government has arraigned former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, his wife, Hafsat, son, Umar, and six others in absentia for alleged bribery and corruption charges totaling $413,000 and N1.38 billion.
The defendants were absent from court, prompting the prosecuting counsel, Adeola Adedayo (SAN), to request a bench warrant for their arrest. However, Justice Amina Aliyu declined the request, citing the sensitive political climate in the state.
Instead, the court arraigned the defendants in absentia, entering a plea of not guilty on their behalf. The matter was adjourned until July 23 and 24 for hearing of preliminary objections and the substantive charges.
Ganduje and his co-defendants are accused of various offenses, including bribery, criminal conspiracy, and dishonest conversion of public funds. The prosecution alleged that Ganduje received bribes from contractors and misappropriated funds meant for public projects.
The Kano State Attorney General, Muhuyi Magaji, stated that he was empowered by the Constitution and the Administration of Criminal Justice Law to prefer the charges against the defendants.
The case has sparked interest in the state, with many calling for accountability and transparency in government. The outcome of the trial is eagerly awaited, as it may set a precedent for future corruption cases in Nigeria.