Ganduje’s Corruption Files Stolen by Hired Thugs During Hunger Protest – Kano Governor
Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, who conducted a crucial on-the-spot assessment of the Kano State High Court on Wednesday, August 14, following its severe vandalization, looting, and arson during the recent nationwide protests that turned violent in northern Nigeria, has stated that critical documents relating to the corruption probe of former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje were stolen.
Governor Yusuf expressed deep regret over the damage inflicted on the historic court building by hoodlums, noting the significant loss caused by the destruction. Among the casualties were critical corruption case files related to former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who is currently facing multiple charges.
“It is very unfortunate that enemies of Kano State hired undesirable elements to vandalise one of the historic public buildings with a mission to subvert the corruption charges against the acting National Chairman of the APC and former governor of the state, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, his family and aides,” Gov Yusuf said in a statement signed by Sanusi Tofa, spokesperson to the Governor.
The statement added that destruction included the office of the Chief Judge and extensive damage across the high court’s facilities. The estimated loss exceeds N1 billion, with office equipment stolen, offices burned, and vehicles destroyed.
Yusuf urged the youth of Kano State to reject violence and instead focus on acquiring skills for a better future, promising government support for such endeavors. He also ordered immediate repairs to the courthouse and enhanced security measures to ensure the continued effectiveness of the judicial system.
In his remarks, Yusuf extended his condolences to Kano State Chief Judge Justice Dije Abdu Aboki and the judiciary, acknowledging the gravity of the incident. He praised the residents for their ongoing support of his administration and called for continued peace, stability, and development in the state.
Effects of The Hunger Protest in Kano State
The Kano State High Court management had previously reported the destruction and theft from their premises on August 4, stating that the rioters, who identified themselves as #EndBadGovernment protesters, had breached the court, looted exhibits, including guns seized from kidnappers, and vandalized both official and private vehicles.
Baba Ibrahim, spokesperson for the court, described the unprecedented violence as the first of its kind against the Kano State Judiciary. The attack resulted in the destruction of important case files and other judicial materials, further compounding the crisis.
