Ganduje trial adjourned until November 26

The Kano State High Court has adjourned the trial of former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje and seven co‑defendants until 26 November. The case, brought by the Kano State Government, charges the defendants with eleven counts of bribery, conspiracy, misappropriation and diversion of public funds. Those charged include Ganduje’s wife, Hafsat Umar, as well as 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 because the defendants were unable 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, indicated it was ready to proceed, with witnesses already present in court. However, the defence counsel requested an adjournment, citing the need to effect service and file further affidavits.

Counsel for Ganduje and his family, Lydia Oluwakemi‑Oyewo, told the court that a further affidavit had been filed but the case could not proceed due to service issues. Other defence lawyers, including Chief M N Duru and Sunusi Musa, also sought adjournments, pointing to pending motions and appeals.

The trial carries significant implications for the accused and for the state’s anti‑corruption efforts. With the adjournment, the court will reconvene on 26 November to continue the proceedings, giving the parties time to finalise their applications and prepare for the next stage.