A Kano State High Court has adjourned the trial of former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje and seven others until November 26. The case, which involves an 11-count charge of bribery, conspiracy, misappropriation, and diversion of public funds, was instituted by the Kano State Government. The defendants include Ganduje’s wife, Hafsat Umar, as well as several individuals and companies, namely Abubakar Bawuro, Umar Abdullahi Umar, Jibrilla Muhammad, Lamash Properties Limited, Safari Textiles Limited, and Lasage General Enterprises Limited.
Justice Amina Adamu-Aliyu adjourned the matter due to the defendants’ inability to file their pending applications. She urged all parties to file and serve their motions before the next sitting. The prosecution, led by Counsel Adeola Adedipe, had indicated readiness to proceed with the case, as witnesses were already present in court. However, the defense counsel requested an adjournment, citing various reasons, including the need to effect service and file further affidavits.
Counsel to Ganduje and his family, Lydia Oluwakemi-Oyewo, informed the court that they had filed a further affidavit but were not ready to proceed due to issues with service. Similarly, other defense counsel, including Chief M N Duru and Sunusi Musa, sought adjournments, citing pending motions and appeals. The case has significant implications for the accused and the state’s anti-corruption efforts. With the adjournment, the court will reconvene on November 26 to continue the trial, allowing the parties to finalize their applications and prepare for the next stage of proceedings.
