A High Court has dismissed an application filed by Abdullahi Ganduje, the former Governor of Kano State and current National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear the bribery case against him.
Ganduje is facing allegations of bribery linked to viral videos that surfaced in 2018, allegedly showing him receiving wads of U.S. dollars from contractors.
The videos, published by Daily Nigerian, sparked widespread controversy and prompted public outcry for accountability.
Ganduje consistently denied the allegations, labeling the videos as doctored and part of a political smear campaign.
The presiding judge ruled that the court has the legal mandate to hear the case, rejecting Ganduje’s claim of lack of jurisdiction.
The judge cited relevant legal provisions affirming the court’s authority over corruption and bribery cases involving public officials.
This ruling paves the way for full trial proceedings against Ganduje, marking a significant step in the pursuit of justice.
The court has set a date for the continuation of the trial, where evidence and witness testimonies are expected to be presented.
Ganduje’s legal team has indicated plans to appeal the ruling, maintaining their position on jurisdictional grounds.
The decision is seen as a crucial move towards judicial accountability and a potential landmark case in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.