The Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC), Muhuyi Rimingado, has reaffirmed that Abdullahi Ganduje, a prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and former governor of Kano State, remains under prosecution for alleged bribery, misappropriation, and diversion of public funds.
Speaking on The Morning Brief program on Channels Television, the Anti-Corruption Chairman confirmed that the case, which has been in the works since 2021, is moving ahead despite challenges, including his own recent legal troubles.
Determined to See Justice Served
When asked if the prosecution would proceed despite his arrest and the hurdles he has faced, Rimingado emphatically stated:
“Yes, we are prosecuting him in person. In fact, we started this investigation in 2021. I endured numerous tribulations, including arrest, detention, assault, and humiliation. However, when I returned, I picked up from where I stopped. This is not a witch-hunt—it’s about accountability.”
Court Adjournment and Scope of the Case
A Kano State High Court has adjourned the hearing of preliminary objections in the case to February 13, 2025. The charges, brought by the Kano State Government, include an eight-count indictment accusing Ganduje and others of misappropriating and diverting public funds amounting to billions of naira.
High-Profile Defendants
The case involves several high-profile defendants beyond the former governor. They include his wife, Hafsat Umar, and individuals such as Abubakar Bawuro, Umar Abdullahi Umar, and Jibrilla Muhammad. Corporations like Lamash Properties Limited, Safari Textiles Limited, and Lasage General Enterprises Limited are also listed.
The Bigger Picture
This case continues to draw attention as a significant test of Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive, with many watching closely to see how the prosecution unfolds. For Rimingado, the resolve to hold public officials accountable remains undeterred, despite personal and professional challenges.
The next court date will likely provide further clarity on the legal battle’s trajectory and its implications for governance and accountability in Kano State and beyond.
