The anticipated arraignment of Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, his family, and six others on corruption charges faced a setback as irregularities hindered proceedings at a Kano High Court. The charges, including bribery and misappropriation of funds, were not served to the accused due to procedural issues. Despite the state government’s assembly of 15 witnesses, only one respondent was present in court, prompting further complications in the legal process.
During the hearing before Justice Usman Mallam Na’abba, the absence of Ganduje and other respondents posed challenges to the court proceedings. Counsel representing the Kano State government cited difficulties in serving the respondents personally, leading to an attempted ex parte motion for substituted means of service. However, objections from the defense, particularly the counsel for the sixth respondent, highlighted legal complexities and procedural shortcomings.
The defense counsel emphasized the lack of provision for service on criminal charges through ex parte motion, signaling potential appeals against such actions. As a result, the court adjourned the matter to April 29, 2024, pending resolution of the procedural issues. Meanwhile, Ganduje has denounced the trial as a witch-hunt, an allegation refuted by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, underscoring the contentious nature of the legal proceedings.
