The Supreme Court has ordered the trial of former Jigawa Governor Sule Lamido and his two sons, Aminu and Mustapha, to continue before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged N1.35 billion fraud.
The apex court set aside the Court of Appeal’s July 2023 judgment, which had upheld the no-case submission made by Lamido and others, citing lack of jurisdiction.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) accused Lamido of abusing his position as governor between 2007 and 2015, allegedly laundering sums of money received as kickbacks from companies awarded contracts by the Jigawa State Government.
The Supreme Court’s decision marks a significant development in the case, which has been ongoing for several years.
Lamido and his co-defendants had argued that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction to hear the case, but the Supreme Court ruled that the trial should proceed.
The EFCC has been investigating Lamido’s alleged corruption and money laundering activities during his tenure as governor.
The trial is expected to resume soon, with Lamido and his co-defendants required to enter their defense.
The case has generated significant interest in Nigeria, given Lamido’s prominent role in politics and his previous positions as governor and PDP national chairman aspirant.
