On Sunday, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to launch a comprehensive investigation into a recent scandal involving medical supply contracts for 44 local governments in the state. This call for action was made through a statement issued by the APC chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas.
Abbas called for the immediate freezing of the accounts of local government councils to prevent further misuse of their funds related to these medical supply contracts. He expressed strong concerns about the recent admission by Governor Abba Yusuf that he was not aware of the financial irregularities.
According to Abbas, this admission suggests that the governor either lacks control over state affairs or is unable to effectively manage the state’s resources.
The APC chairman criticized the directive given to the state Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate the scandal. Abbas described this measure as insufficient, labeling it “laughable” and questioning the commission’s effectiveness.
He specifically criticized the commission’s chairman, Muhyi Magaji Rimin Gado, whom he accused of being partisan and compromised. Abbas argued that Gado’s involvement was problematic, particularly since the scandal allegedly involved close family members of the governor’s father-in-law, Sen. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, a key figure in the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
Abbas highlighted that this scandal is part of a broader pattern of financial mismanagement by NNPP officials. He recalled that the state government had previously awarded a controversial N27 billion contract for the construction of two interchange bridges at Dan-Agundi and Tal’udu junctions. This contract was to be funded jointly by the state and the 44 local governments, with the funds split between them.
Abbas also pointed out ongoing financial issues and allegations that have not been adequately investigated, including claims of misappropriated relief funds by a political appointee from the Cabinet Office.
In response to these allegations, Commissioner for Information Baba Halilu Dantiye defended the state government.
He praised Governor Abba Yusuf for initiating an investigation into the medical supply contracts, stating that it was a necessary and appropriate action. Dantiye emphasized that due process was followed in awarding the road contracts and that all records are available for public scrutiny.
Dantiye expressed surprise at the APC’s attempts to hinder investigations and challenged them to allow the probes to continue if they had nothing to hide. He also mentioned calls for an investigation into the former first lady’s alleged misuse of local government funds through multiple bank accounts during her tenure.
Dantiye reassured the people of Kano State that Governor Abba Yusuf’s administration is committed to transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to procurement laws. He promised that any wrongdoing would be thoroughly investigated and addressed according to the law.
