The Kano State judiciary has reassigned the corruption case involving the former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to a new judge. The case, which has garnered significant public interest, was previously presided over by Justice Usman Malam Na’abba at Kano High Court 4. It will now be heard by Justice Amina Adamu at Court 7.
This move comes amid rising concerns over the impartiality of the judicial process. The Chief Judge of Kano State, Justice Dije Abdu Aboki, executed the reassignment, which has sent ripples through the legal community and the public at large. The case involves allegations of misappropriation and diversion of funds against the former governor and seven other individuals.
The reassignment occurred just as the court was poised to deliver a ruling on substituted service to the defendants, a legal maneuver that has been a point of contention in the proceedings. Defense lawyer for the 6th respondent, Nuraini Jimoh (SAN), had raised objections to the substituted service, arguing its invalidity without prior attempts to serve the defendants directly.
The Kano State Government has prepared a roster of 15 witnesses to present against the accused in an eight-count charge. The case had seen a previous adjournment on April 29, 2024, as the court struggled to serve the defendants, with the exception of the sixth defendant.
The Chief Judge’s decision to transfer the case is within her judicial prerogatives, especially in situations where concerns about fairness and bias are raised. Public Relations Officer of the Kano State High Court, Baba Jibo Ibrahim, affirmed the Chief Judge’s authority to direct and transfer cases at any stage before judgment.
The legal community and observers are keenly watching the developments, as this high-profile case is seen as a litmus test for the judiciary’s independence and integrity in Kano State.
Let Zebra News help your business/brand reach a wider audience. Advertise with us today! Contact Our Marketing Team; Tel: 08062622328, 07083662767. Email: zebranewsng@gmail.com
