The much-anticipated arraignment of Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has been postponed due to the Kano State government’s inability to serve criminal charges against him.
Ganduje, alongside his wife, son, and five others, was scheduled to face eight counts of charges, including bribery allegations totaling $413,000 and the misappropriation of funds amounting to N1.38 billion.
During a courtroom session, Counsel to the Kano State government, Bar. Y. A. Adamu, informed the court of their failure to serve the respondents personally, leading to the halting of proceedings. Adamu attempted to file an exparte motion application to serve the respondents through substituted means.
However, Counsel to the 6th respondent, Bar. Nureini Jimoh, SAN, vehemently objected, challenging the prosecution to complete due diligence.
Jimoh emphasized that there is no provision for service on criminal charges through an exparte motion and vowed to contest such a move at the Court of Appeal.
Presiding judge, Justice Na’abba, adjourned the matter until April 29, 2024, for further proceedings.
Expressing frustration over the delay, a source close to the defence team stated, “This delay is unnecessary and only prolongs the legal process. We are eager to clear our names and move forward.”
Meanwhile, supporters of the defendants gathered outside the courtroom, expressing solidarity and confidence in the legal process.