…By Lola Smith for TDPel Media. Renowned Nigerian lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has been enlisted by the Kano Public Complaint and Anti-Corruption Commission as its lead counsel in a high-profile case involving the former Governor of the state, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
The Kano PCACC aims to prosecute the All Progressives Congress chieftain over a series of controversial videos that emerged in 2017, showing him allegedly accepting kickbacks from contractors.
Mr. Ganduje has denied the accusations, claiming that the videos were manipulated.
Femi Falana flew into Kano on Thursday to gather comprehensive information about the case, which is already before a Federal High Court in the state.
Controversial Videos and Allegations:
The case against Dr. Ganduje centers on a set of videos published by the online news outlet Daily Nigerian.
These videos allegedly depicted the former governor receiving kickbacks from contractors, prompting widespread public outrage and calls for accountability.
The Kano PCACC, in its pursuit of justice, is now seeking to prosecute the APC chieftain based on the evidence presented in these videos.
Femi Falana’s Involvement:
Known for his expertise and experience in handling high-profile legal matters, Femi Falana (SAN) has been engaged by the Kano Anti-Corruption Commission to lead its legal team in the case against Dr. Ganduje.
Flying into Kano to gather all necessary information, Falana is determined to provide a strong defense or push for accountability, depending on the merits of the case.
Case Proceedings and Recent Developments:
The case is currently before a Federal High Court sitting in Kano, where it was recently adjourned by the presiding judge, Justice A.M. Liman.
Bar. Usman Umar Fari, the counsel to the Kano Anti-Graft Commission, revealed that the adjournment was due to the applicant’s counsel not being adequately prepared to respond to the served processes.
Consequently, the hearing has been rescheduled to the 25th of July 2023.
Ganduje’s Ex Parte Motion:
Dr. Ganduje’s legal team, led by Bar. B. Hemba, had filed an Ex Parte Motion before the court, seeking to restrain the Kano Anti-Corruption Commission from arresting, investigating, or inviting him for questioning related to the alleged dollar video.
The motion adds another layer of complexity to the case, adding to the anticipation surrounding its outcome.
Conclusion:
With Femi Falana (SAN) now leading the legal team, the case against Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje is set to move forward.
The controversial videos and allegations have captured public attention, and the court proceedings will be closely watched.
As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen how the legal battle will shape the future of Kano’s political landscape and the fight against corruption in Nigeria.