The Federal High Court in Abuja issued a ruling on Wednesday permitting Sani Malumfashi, who is the chairman of the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC), along with his co-defendants, to undertake Islamic pilgrimages to Mecca.
Malumfashi's co-defendants consist of Anas Muhammed Mustapha, the Secretary of KANSIEC, and Ado Garba, a Deputy Director within the Commission's Accounts Department.
These individuals are currently facing legal accusations of unlawfully misappropriating N1 billion during the months of November and December 2024.
Judge James Omotosho approved the travel requests after Okechukwu Edeze, the counsel representing the defendants, presented three applications to this effect.
"I have considered the submissions made regarding the applications and the responses from the prosecution. The consolidated applications are granted as requested," stated Judge Omotosho.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has lodged six counts against the defendants, alleging that they siphoned funds amounting to N450 million, N310 million, and N260 million from November to December 2024.
The defendants were initially arraigned on January 27 and remained in custody until they were granted bail the following day, with each required to pay N200 million.
Subsequent to the January hearing, the case was adjourned to March 4 for the trial to commence. However, when the session resumed on Wednesday, attorney Edeze informed the court of their travel requests for Umrah and Hajj.
When presenting this application, Edeze indicated that the requests of the three defendants
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