Ganduje

By Uzair Adam

A Kano State High Court has set November 20 to hear pending applications in the case of alleged bribery and misappropriation of public funds amounting to billions of naira involving the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, his wife Hafsat Umar, and six other defendants.

The defendants, including Abubakar Bawuro, Umar Abdullahi Umar, Jibrilla Muhammad, Lamash Properties Limited, Safari Textiles Limited, and Lasage General Enterprises Limited, are facing an eight-count charge relating to bribery, misappropriation, and the diversion of public funds.

During Wednesday’s session, the counsel for the plaintiff, Adeola Adedipe, SAN, expressed readiness to proceed, having filed a counter affidavit, with one of their witnesses testifying remotely from Lagos.

However, the defense teams for several defendants requested more time, stating they had not been served with the necessary documents.

Counsel for the 1st, 2nd, and 4th defendants, Offiong Offiong, SAN, and others representing the remaining defendants, all requested adjournments for the hearing of their preliminary objections.

Justice Amina Adamu Aliyu emphasized the importance of proper service of processes and adjourned the case to November 20 for the hearing of all pending applications. Hi

By Uzair Adam

A coalition of APC groups in North Central has said it ha suspended its agitation for Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as the National chairman of the All Progrssives congress (APC).

The Daily Reality reports that the chairman of the coalition, Hon Abdullahi Sale Zazzaga, disclosed this during an interview with DCL Hausa on Wednesday.

He said their superiors in the region cautioned then against the agitation, especially as the the party’s NEC meeting approaches. Zazzaga said that their agitation is purposely is for political and economic well-being of the region.

He said, “We have agitated steadfastly and we have bene heard loud and clear. This will not be the end of our agitation. We are doing it for our people.

“We suspended this agitation because webhad a talk with our supuriors. We sat at a table with them. They cited the upcoming NEC meeting of the party. They asked us to give the NEC a chance to make a final decision on the matter.

“We will wait to see what the NEC will do about it. Everybody in this country knows that we have agitation for the good of our people and our region. But we can’t go ahead with the agitation since we had a talk with our superiors.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit seeking the removal of Abdullahi Ganduje as All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman.

Justice Inyang Ekwo ruled that the plaintiff, North Central APC Forum, lacked standing to file the suit. 

The court held that the group was not registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission and therefore not a juristic person.

Justice Ekwo ruled that Ganduje’s appointment or removal requires a national convention. 

The plaintiff’s lawyer, Ayuba Abdul, and group leader Saleh Zazzaga vowed to appeal the judgement, expressing no surprise at the outcome. 

The suit challenged Ganduje’s appointment, citing the APC constitution’s Article 31.5(1) f, which requires the chairman to hail from the North Central geopolitical zone.

Ganduje is from Kano State in the North West zone.

If I were Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, I would respectfully refrain from interfering in Kano politics, as it is not an election season.

Despite my desire to influence the state’s affairs, I would acknowledge that my time in charge has passed, and I would allow Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf to lead as he sees fit.

I have had my time and made significant decisions, even challenging my former long-term boss.

Furthermore, I would prioritize the well-being and safety of the state and its people above my personal political ambitions.

Given my tainted record, I would strive to preserve the remaining respect that some people still hold for me.

Peace.

Dr. Muhsin Ibrahim writes from Cologne, Germany.

By Dr. Mansur Hassan

In recent years, Kano State has been a focal point of political intrigue and traditional authority upheaval. This period of tension can be traced back to the administration of Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who, in 2019, made the contentious decision to create five new emirates: Kano, Gaya, Karaye, Bichi, and Rano. This move significantly altered the traditional power structure within the state.

The catalyst for this decision was an alleged accusation that the then Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness Muhammad Sanusi II, was supporting the opposition party and not endorsing Ganduje’s re-election bid in 2019. In an effort to diminish the influence of Emir Sanusi, Ganduje went as far as removing him from his position. Subsequently, HRH Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero was appointed as the new Emir of Kano.

This drastic change sparked debates and criticisms, particularly because it was executed despite a court order against it. However, the opposition, notably the Kwankwasiyya movement, chose not to incite unrest, highlighting their commitment to peace despite the significant political provocation.

The creation of the new emirates was perceived by many as a strategy to dilute the power and influence of the traditional emirate system. This move arguably undermined the dignity and historical significance of the Kano Emirate, not just within Nigeria but across the continent.

In a turn of events, the Kano State House of Assembly in 2024 decided to review and reverse the law that led to the creation of the five emirates. The Kano State Emirate Council (Repeal) Bill 2024 (1445 A.H) was enacted, aiming to restore the traditional structure to its former status:

Title and Commencement: This bill, officially cited as the Kano State Emirates Councils (Repeal) Bill, 2024 (1445 A.H), outlines the legislative intent and its commencement.

Repeal of Previous Laws: It repeals the Kano State Emirates Council Law, 2019 (1441 A.H), and all amendments made thereafter.

Abrogation of New Emirates: All offices created under the repealed law are abolished, and appointments made under the law are set aside.

Restoration of Traditional Titles: Traditional office holders and title holders elevated under the repealed law will revert to their previous positions based on recognized customs and traditions.

Governor’s Authority: The Governor is empowered to take necessary measures to restore the status of the Kano Emirate System as it was before the enactment of the repealed law.

Commissioner’s Role: The Commissioner responsible for Local Government will oversee transitional arrangements concerning assets and liabilities of the abolished emirates.

Key Questions and Concerns:

Legislative Reversal: Can the state House of Assembly reverse a law passed and assented to by the executive governor? Legally, a state assembly has the authority to repeal or amend existing laws, provided due legislative process is followed and the bill receives the governor’s assent.

Federal Intervention: Concerns arise about external influences, particularly from Abuja, creating unnecessary tension by attempting to reinstate the deposed emir through federal power and security agencies.

A Call for Unity:

To the people of Kano State, it is imperative not to allow external forces or individuals, who have lost the people’s trust, to manipulate the situation for political gains. The matter of the emirate is deeply rooted in tradition and should remain an internal affair. Both the reappointed Emir Muhammad Sunusi II and the deposed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero are brothers, and resolving this issue amicably is crucial for maintaining peace and dignity within Kano.

In conclusion, the political and traditional landscape of Kano State is at a crossroads. It is a time for reflection and careful consideration of actions that uphold the integrity and historical heritage of the Kano Emirate. The recent legislative changes signify a potential return to stability and respect for traditional structures, but it requires collective effort and respect for due process.

Mansur Hassan, PhD wrote the article and can be reached via mhassan@yumsuk.edu.ng

By Uzair Adam Imam

Former National Vice Chairman (North West) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Salihu Mohammed Lukman, has issued a 16-day ultimatum to the party’s National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to convene meetings of various party organs or face legal action.

In a letter dated May 21, 2024, and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lukman requested that the President compel Ganduje to convene meetings of the National Executive Committee (NEC), National Caucus, and the National Advisory Council (also known as the Board of Trustees) within 16 days.

These organs have not met since Ganduje assumed office on August 3, 2023, with only the National Working Committee (NWC) meeting regularly to oversee the party’s day-to-day operations.

The letter was copied to Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum Hope Uzodinma, among others.

Lukman’s ultimatum emphasizes the need for the party’s organs to meet and make crucial decisions, warning of legal action if the meetings are not convened within the specified timeframe.

The letter reads in part, “l am compelled to kindly draw Your Excellency’s attention that as it is, our party is operating almost blindly without recourse to provisions of the APC Constitution. Meetings of organs as specified by relevant provisions of the APC Constitution are not taking place.

“Decisions, which established organs of the party are expected to take, are being taken by individual leaders outside those organs. One of the critical organs, the Board of Trustees, which is renamed National Advisory Council has not been inaugurated since the formation of the APC in July 2013.

“With such reality, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party has appropriated the powers of all organs and in its name the National Chairman is taking discretionary decisions.

“With such reality, many of the decisions taken not only violate sections of the APC Constitution but also undermine Sections 221 — 229 of Part Il of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution as amended as well as the Electoral Act 2022.

“I want to kindly demand that every necessary initiative should be started between now May 21, 2024 and June 7, 2024 to activate all organs of the APC in line with the extant provisions of the party’s constitution.

“Failure to do that will compel me as a patriotic Nigerian and loyal party member who has paid his dues to seek legal redress. Democracy is meaningless without functional political parties.”

By Uzair Adam Imam

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has called on the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to establish reconciliation committees to unite party members nationwide.

Speaking at the APC stakeholders’ meeting for the Northwest in Kaduna, the Speaker emphasized the need to reconcile and make peace with aggrieved members, as the party faces internal conflicts in various states.

The Speaker urged Ganduje to constitute reconciliation committees for each state and zone to bring peace and unity to the party, stressing that elections are over, and it’s time for governance.

He also suggested that APC members who perform well should be given the opportunity to return in 2027, citing the high turnover rate of National Assembly members.

Additionally, the Speaker commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for giving key positions to the Northwest and called on party leaders to support the party structures at all times, not just during elections.

He also mentioned the ongoing constitution amendment by the National Assembly, highlighting areas like state police, local government autonomy, women’s inclusion, and traditional institutions’ roles.

By Uzair Adam Imam  

The High Court of Kano State has upheld the suspension of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as a member of the party.  

Presided over by Justice Usman Malam Na’abba, the court affirmed the suspension on Tuesday, responding to an ex parte motion filed by Dr. Ibrahim Sa’ad, Esq.  

The motion was brought on behalf of two executive members of APC Ganduje ward in Dawakin-Tofa local government area: assistant secretary Laminu Sani and legal adviser Haladu Gwanjo, who were among the nine ward executives that initiated Ganduje’s suspension two days prior. 

The court’s decision followed an ex parte motion filed by Haladu Gwanjo and Laminu Sani through their counsel, Ibrahim Sa’ad.  

Gwanjo, identifying himself as the party’s ward legal adviser, had announced Ganduje’s suspension earlier. 

Consequently, the court ordered Ganduje to refrain from presiding over any affairs of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC.  

This ruling came after the State Working Committee of the APC in Kano suspended ward party leaders who had initially announced Ganduje’s suspension. 

Previously, the leadership of the APC at Ganduje ward in Dawkin Tofa Local Government area had announced Ganduje’s suspension, citing corruption charges filed against him by the government.  

However, Inusa Suleiman Dawanau, the APC Chairman in Dawakin Tofa Local Government, revealed that those behind the suspension were engaged in anti-party activities and had been exposed for their meetings with the ruling opposition. 

In addition to the suspension, the State Working Committee (SWC) sanctioned them for six months and established a panel to investigate various allegations against them.  

Following these developments, the ruling party petitioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, urging the force to investigate those responsible for Ganduje’s purported suspension.

By Uzair Adam Imam  

The Kano State Anti-Corruption and Public Complaints Commission has unveiled fresh allegations of corruption and maladministration against former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje. 

The chairman of the commission, Muhuyi Magaji, disclosed that investigations have exposed the diversion of N51.3 billion from local government funds to unauthorised individuals during Ganduje’s tenure.  

Speaking on Tuesday’s edition of Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme, Magaji claimed that the administration withdrew N1 billion monthly from state coffers before its conclusion in May 2023.  

Allegedly earmarked for road renovation, these funds were redirected to Bureau de Change operators. Magaji further highlighted a case involving N4 billion transferred from Kano’s consolidated revenue account to an agricultural company.  

He asserted that these revelations merely scratch the surface of broader corruption probes, indicating ongoing investigations into various financial irregularities. 

Magaji stated that, “We have filed a series of cases. We have a case whereby N1 billion was diverted from government coffers under the guise of renovating 30 roads in the metropolis, only to be sent to Bureau de Change.  

“We have another case involving N4 billion transferred from the state’s revenue account to an agricultural company. All these cases are currently before the court,” he added. 

In response to these allegations, the state government has announced its intention to arraign Ganduje, along with his wife and son, for money laundering later this week.  

The unfolding saga adds another chapter to the ongoing scrutiny of political figures and financial mismanagement in Nigeria.

Appeal court confirmed the candidate of the opposition party Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, of All Progressive Congress (APC), as the winner of the March 2023 gubernatorial election.

But if we can recall, immediately after the first announcement of the election results in the radio stations and some social media handles, we heard the voice of the opposition candidte,Dr. Nasiru Gawuna saying that he is Muslim and for that; he accepted everything that happened to him with good faith. But later, the leadership of the party coming out with a lot of controversies, rising issues of invalid votes, rigging of election and many other sinister ways of usurping power. Later we heard that the tribunal has deducted 165,663 votes from Engineer Yusuf’s total votes as invalid votes, stating that the affected ballot papers were not stamped or signed and therefore declared invalid.

The verdict comes nearly two months after the Kano Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, on September 20, sacked Yusuf, declaring the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Nasiru Gawuna, as the winner of the March 18 election. Abba Yusuf, who contested on the platform of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), was declared the winner of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after the polls in March, 2023.

But remember what is currently going on in Kano is as a result of a clash or misunderstanding between the Kwankwasiyya and Gandujiyya political movements which started some years back in the year 2016, and these misunderstandings continue until 2019 election when the same issues like this occurred, which led to inconclusive. And from that time to date there is no sign of reconciliation between these two political movements.

The leaders of both movements; Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje are very prominent people in the politics of Kano and even Nigeria as large. Without mentioning these two names, the politics of Kano in this 21st century will not be complete. What I want to say here in essence is that, before this quagmire, Kwankwaso was the boss to Ganduje, who was first governor in this dispensation, while Ganduje was his deputy. And after the tenure of Kwankwaso ended, Ganduje was the successor of Kwankwaso. Therefore, the duo had worked together for long, but selfish interest, envy and the devil crept in between them.

After Abba Kabir Yusuf become the governor of Kano State, he started his tenure by demolishing of what his government described as illegal structures in Kano. This reckless demolishing raised tension and made many people from the opposition to redouble their hatred towards his government. It was also alleged that after the incident, Abba lost some of his fans or supporters but believe me you upon all the demolishing, the majority of Kano people are still with Abba, and this is simply because, most of the demolished properties are genuinely illegal and they were all erected on the public places.

Finally we all know that the Kwankwasiyya movement is with the poor masses. If you can see the last four years of Kwankwaso, one can understand a clear view of what I am saying. There are so many developmental projects, like the issues of empowering youths and women, healthcare, education, scholarship scheme which is unprecedented in nature, among many other goodies to the good people of Kano, which Abba continues from his boss.

Kwankwasiyya or Gandujiyya; I appeal to both parties to leave politics aside in order to rescue Kano and to develop Kano and its environs or else even the existing development will automatically decay. I believe reconciliation will only happen if actually Kano is in their minds, before they allow their dirty politics to take Kano down.

Haladu Muhammad, writes from Maiduguri, Borno State.