The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has escalated its investigation into an alleged procurement scandal involving the diversion of ₦440 million from local government funds. The probe is focused on claims that approximately ₦10 million was illicitly siphoned from each of the 44 local government accounts to Novomed Pharmaceuticals for medical supplies, in a transaction that reportedly breached public procurement laws.
This alleged corruption, totaling ₦440 million, has sparked public outrage and raised serious concerns about the financial management practices within the state.
In a letter dated July 18, 2024, the PCACC summoned several high-ranking officials from the Ministry for Local Government to clarify their involvement in the controversial transactions. Those called to appear include the Chairman and Secretary of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), the Chairman and PRO of the DPM Forum, the Director of Local Government Inspection, and the Director of Planning.
The investigation was prompted by whistleblower Dr. Bello Galadanci, a prominent social media content creator known for his outspoken stance against corruption in Nigerian leadership. Galadanci accused the Kano State Government of bypassing due process in awarding the contract to Novomed Pharmaceuticals, leading to the alleged diversion of funds from each local government.
In response to these allegations, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf denied any knowledge of the reported diversion, reiterating his administration’s commitment to transparency and zero tolerance for corruption. “My administration is committed to transparency and will not tolerate any form of corruption,” Yusuf stated.
Additionally, in a joint statement, Kano State Commissioner for Information Baba Dantiye and the governor’s spokesman, Sanusi Bature, confirmed that the governor has ordered an immediate investigation into the matter. “The governor has directed the Executive Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC), Muhyi Magaji, to thoroughly investigate the allegations and report the findings for further necessary action,” the statement read.
The officials named in the PCACC’s letter are expected to appear before the Commission on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 11:00 AM. This meeting, to be held at the Commission’s office, is a critical step in the ongoing investigation into the ₦440 million procurement scandal.
