Key Points
- Coalition demands Ganduje’s arrest for bribery, fund misuse.
- Allegations include a N57.43 billion($34.19 million) diversion.
- EFCC urged to act on documented evidence.
A coalition of 51 anti-corruption organizations has filed a formal petition with Nigeria’s EFCC, advocating for the immediate arrest and prosecution of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former governor of Kano State.
The coalition’s appeal, dated November 4, 2024, details serious allegations of bribery, financial misconduct, and fund diversion, underscoring the need for urgent action against Ganduje.
According to Leadership, the accusations build upon an existing fraud case by the Kano State government, focusing on Ganduje’s financial activities during his governorship from 2015 to 2023. The petition, acknowledged by the EFCC on November 7, highlights the substantial evidence already gathered to support these claims.
Detailed allegations of diversion and luxury acquisitions
The coalition’s case accuses Ganduje and associates of diverting over N57.43 billion($34.19 million) intended for local government development across Kano’s 44 districts.
The diverted funds, the petition claims, were used for high-end property purchases domestically and internationally. Throughout his administration, Ganduje reportedly faced widespread accusations of cronyism, nepotism, and embezzlement, casting a shadow over his leadership and financial management.
Further, the petition outlines an alleged scheme in which Ganduje converted public funds into foreign currency and cash through various accounts between 2020 and 2023. He now faces allegations of criminal conspiracy, breach of trust and gross misappropriation.
Prosecution builds case with key witnesses
To substantiate their claims, prosecutors have enlisted testimony from 143 witnesses, ranging from local government cashiers to foreign exchange operators and former bank employees.
These witnesses are expected to provide critical insights and documentation to support the charges.
Persistent calls for transparency and justice
The petition was co-signed by Dr. Johnson Nebechi, convener of the National Anti-Corruption Alliance (NACA), and Comrade Umar Ideresu, who both argue that the evidence against Ganduje demands a swift EFCC investigation. “Ganduje’s record of corruption is well-documented.
In 2018, a widely circulated video appeared to show him receiving a $5 million bribe from contractors,” the petition states, referencing a report by the Daily Nigerian. The petition further notes that in 2023, the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) issued a summons to Ganduje, though he did not appear.
His arraignment is now scheduled for April 17, 2024, with eight counts relating to an alleged $413,000 bribe and misappropriation of N1.38 billion($821,501).
Coalition demands decisive EFCC action
The NACA is urging the EFCC to initiate Ganduje’s arrest, conduct a full investigation into the N57.43 billion($34.19 million) diversion, and work to recover misappropriated public funds. “The EFCC must fulfill its mandate to combat corruption and defend public interest,” the petition states. “Nigerians deserve transparency, accountability, and justice.
We expect the EFCC to act with diligence and rigor, reaffirming its commitment to eradicate corruption.” With these demands, the coalition emphasizes that the EFCC’s response will be pivotal in demonstrating its dedication to upholding transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s political landscape.
