Kano Electoral Commission Chairman Granted N200m Bail in N1bn Fraud Case
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has granted bail to Sani Malumfashi, the chairman of the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC), alongside two other officials, in the sum of N200 million each over alleged N1 billion fraud. The court, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, delivered this ruling on Wednesday, setting strict conditions for their release while ordering their remand at the Kuje correctional centre pending the perfection of bail.
Defendants and Charges in the High-Profile Case
Malumfashi is standing trial with Anas Muhammed Mustapha, the secretary of KANSIEC, and Ado Garba, a deputy director in the accounts department of the electoral body. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) arraigned the three officials on Tuesday before Justice Omotosho, accusing them of conspiring to syphon funds totalling N1 billion, including specific amounts of N450 million, N310 million, and N260 million between November and December 2024.
The charges, dated November 28 and filed on December 1, 2025, allege that the defendants took possession of N450 million through SLM Agro Global Farm accounts domiciled with Jaiz Bank, with the funds believed to be proceeds of unlawful activities. The alleged offences contravene provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. All three defendants pleaded not guilty when the six-count charge was read to them in court.
Strict Bail Conditions Imposed by the Court
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho granted each defendant bail of N200 million with two sureties in like sum, noting that the charges are bailable and not capital offences. The judge considered the position of the ICPC, which did not oppose the bail applications, but imposed rigorous conditions to ensure compliance.
The court directed that each surety must:
- Own property valued at a minimum of N100 million within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)
- Depose to an affidavit of means
- Present evidence of tax payments for the past three years
- Provide recent passport photographs and certified true copies of bank statements from both the sureties and the defendants
Additionally, the judge ordered the defendants to submit their international passports to the court registrar for verification. The case has been adjourned to March 4 for the commencement of trial, with the defendants remanded at the Kuje correctional centre until all bail conditions are perfected.
Broader Context of Anti-Corruption Efforts in Nigeria
This case highlights ongoing efforts by anti-graft agencies like the ICPC to combat financial misconduct in Nigeria's electoral and public sectors. The allegations against KANSIEC officials come at a time when electoral integrity and transparency are critical concerns for governance and democracy in the country.
The development follows other high-profile cases, such as the ICPC's planned arraignment of three former appointees of ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai in a separate N64 million money laundering charge. These actions underscore the judiciary's role in addressing corruption and enforcing accountability among public officials.
As the trial proceeds, stakeholders will closely monitor the proceedings to ensure justice is served and to reinforce public trust in Nigeria's electoral and judicial systems.
