The Kano State Government has filed a fresh charge against former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje and erstwhile Commissioner for Justice Musa Lawan. Here are the key details from the case:
1. **Nature of Charges**: The charge sheet, numbered K/143c/24, accuses Ganduje and Lawan of Criminal Conspiracy and misappropriation, offenses that contravene Section 308 and punishable under Section 309 of the Penal Code (as amended) CAP 105, Vol. 2, Laws of Kano State.
2. **Specific Allegations**: The state government alleges abuse of office against Ganduje and Lawan, specifying violations under Section 97 and Section 315 of the law.
3. **Legal Proceedings**: The state government intends to present four witnesses in support of its case. However, no date has been set yet for the arraignment of the accused.
4. **Previous Legal Actions**: Earlier, on April 4, the state government had filed a suit involving Ganduje, his wife Hafsat Umar, and six others before a State high court. The defendants, including Ganduje’s son and several companies, pleaded not guilty, and the court reserved judgment on preliminary objections.
5. **Court Proceedings**: During subsequent hearings, Justice Amina Aliyu expressed concern over the defendants’ failure to appear in court despite being served with a substitute means of service. The prosecution sought a bench warrant against Ganduje, his wife, and the other defendants.
The case underscores ongoing legal challenges involving high-profile figures in Kano State, highlighting allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of public office.