The Kano State High Court has reserved its ruling in the high-profile bribery case involving APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and seven others.
Ganduje, Wife, and Others Face Eight-Count Charge
The Kano State Government filed the case against Ganduje, his wife Hafsat Umar, and others for alleged bribery, misappropriation, and diversion of public funds.
Other defendants include Abubakar Bawuro, Umar Abdullahi Umar, Jibrilla Muhammad, Lamash Properties, Safari Textiles, and Lasage General Enterprises.
Defence Files Multiple Preliminary Objections
When the court convened on Tuesday, defence lawyers filed several preliminary objections challenging the court’s jurisdiction.
They also submitted applications seeking extensions of time to respond to the state’s charges.
Offiong Offiong (SAN), counsel for Ganduje, his wife, and Umar, submitted a preliminary objection dated November 18, 2024.
He also filed a reply on point of law dated April 4, 2025, urging the court to uphold their application.
Prosecution Argues Objections Lack Merit
However, lead prosecutor Adeola Adedipe (SAN) opposed the objections.
He stated the state filed a counter affidavit and written address on October 22, 2024, and asked the court to dismiss the defence applications.
Other Defence Counsels Join Objections
Counsel Adekunle Taiye-Falola, representing the 3rd and 7th defendants, filed a preliminary objection dated October 18, 2024.
He followed up with a better affidavit on December 12, 2024.
Sunusi Musa (SAN), lawyer to the 5th defendant, not only filed an objection but also sought compensation against the state.
Ashafa Yusuf, for the 6th defendant, and Faruk Asekome, for the 8th, made similar filings with respective supporting documents.
Judge Grants Extension But Reserves Ruling
Justice Amina Adamu-Aliyu granted all applications for more time.
However, she reserved ruling on the preliminary objections, noting that a new date will be communicated later.
What Comes Next?
The court’s upcoming decision will determine if the case proceeds or ends at this stage.
Legal observers are watching closely due to the political sensitivity and public interest surrounding the matter.
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