Senator representing Kano Central, Rufai Sani Hanga, has been dragged before an Upper Sharia Court over an alleged unpaid sum of N124,800,070 owed to political associates.
The civil suit, filed by Isa Ado Medoya and other members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), claims the amount was incurred during the senator’s electioneering campaign for services rendered.
When the case came up for hearing before Sharia Judge Muhammad Sani, counsel to the plaintiffs, Abbas Mandawari, outlined the basis of the claim, stating that the funds represent payment for agreed campaign assignments executed by his clients.
Mandawari presented documents and samples to demonstrate the nature of the work carried out, adding that further consultations were required to properly organise additional materials. He subsequently requested more time for verification.
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Counsel to the defendant opposed the application, arguing that the plaintiffs were unprepared to proceed with substantive arguments and urging the court to dismiss the suit on grounds of lack of diligent prosecution.
However, the court declined the request for dismissal, ruling that the plaintiffs be granted additional time to consolidate their filings. The judge emphasised the need to allow both parties adequate opportunity to fully present their cases.
The matter was adjourned to April 21, 2026, for the continuation of proceedings, with the plaintiffs expected to submit complete documentation, after which the defence will respond formally.
Meanwhile, the case unfolds amid ongoing political realignments in Kano State. Senator Hanga, the only NNPP senator in the National Assembly and Deputy Minority Whip, has remained aligned with Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso despite recent defections within the party.
The senator has reportedly described recent political shifts, including the defection of Abba Kabir Yusuf, as a betrayal, reiterating his commitment to remain within his political bloc.
(People’s Pen)