Lamido’s N1.35bn Fraud Case Delayed Over Counsel’s Absence

The trial of former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido and his sons, Aminu and Mustapha Lamido, over an alleged N1.35 billion fraud has been adjourned after the lead defence counsel failed to appear in court.

The trio are facing a 37-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering, kickbacks and fictitious contract awards. Prosecutors allege the offences were committed during Lamido's tenure as governor between 2007 and 2015.

At Monday's proceedings, the prosecution informed the court that the defence counsel was absent due to medical reasons and had requested an adjournment. While wishing him a speedy recovery, the prosecution argued that another lawyer from the defence team could have appeared to prevent further delays in a case that has remained in court for several years.

The prosecution also noted that the trial judge had travelled from another judicial division to preside over the proceedings and urged the court to grant only a short adjournment.

After considering the submissions, the court adjourned the matter for the continuation of trial.

A statement on the case contained an apparent error, listing the next hearing date as July 20, 2022. However, since the proceedings took place on July 20, 2026, the next sitting is expected to hold on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.

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