The trial of former Kano State governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and eight others has been delayed due to the defendants’ inability to file their pending applications. The Kano State Government had filed an 11-count charge against Ganduje, his wife, Hafsat, and six others, alleging bribery, conspiracy, misappropriation, and diversion of public funds totaling billions of Naira.
The case, which was scheduled to continue on Monday, was stalled when the defense team informed the court that they were not ready to proceed. Counsel to the State Government, Adeola Adedipe, expressed readiness to open the prosecution’s case, with witnesses already present in court. However, the defense team requested an adjournment, citing unresolved applications and motions.
Ganduje’s counsel, Lydia Oluwakemi-Oyewo, stated that a further and better affidavit filed on July 17, 2025, had not been properly served on all parties. Similarly, other defense counsel, including Chief M. N. Duru and Mr. Sunusi Musa, informed the court of pending motions and applications, including a stay of proceedings at the Court of Appeal.
Justice Amina Adamu-Aliyu directed all parties to ensure that their pending motions are filed and served before the next sitting. The case has been adjourned to November 26, 2025, for the hearing of all pending applications. The trial is a significant development in the ongoing anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria, with the Kano State Government seeking to hold public officials accountable for alleged mismanagement of public funds.
The charges against Ganduje and the other defendants are serious, with allegations of bribery, conspiracy, and diversion of public funds. The case is being closely watched, as it has implications for transparency and accountability in governance. The adjournment has delayed the trial, but the court’s directive to the parties to file and serve their pending motions is expected to pave the way for a smooth hearing in November. The outcome of the trial will be significant, as it will determine the fate of the defendants and send a message about the government’s commitment to fighting corruption.