The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Kano State, on Sunday, called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to launch a full-scale investigation into the latest scandal involving medical supply contracts to 44 local governments in the state.
This is contained in a statement issued by the chairman of the APC, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas in Kano on Sunday.
Abbas called for the freezing of the accounts of local government councils in the state to stop further plundering of their resources in the name of joint projects.
He said the admission by Governor Abba Yusuf that he was not aware of the sleaze was a clear indication that he was either not in control or lacked capacity to lead the state.
Abbas described as laughable the directive given to the state Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission to probe the matter.
The chairman pointed out that going by his antecedents, chairman of the commission, Muhyi Magaji Rimin Gado was partisan, compromised and lacked the power to investigate the scandal allegedly involving the immediate family members of the governor’s father in-law and embattled leader of the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the state, Sen. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso.
He noted that the scandal was the latest in a series of financial recklessness allegedly involving officials of the NNPP government.
Abbas recalled that the state government awarded controversial contracts worth N27 billion for the construction of two interchange bridges at Dan-Agundi and Tal’udu junction in the metropolis, the payment of which would be shared in a 30/70 ratio between the state and the 44 local governments.
The chairman said there were still financial allegations that were either not probed or not properly investigated involving the government, its officials and appointees.
He said these included diversion and repackaging of palliatives by a political appointee attached to Cabinet Office.
When contacted, Commissioner for Information, Baba Halilu Dantiye commended the state Governor for directing an immediate investigation into the contract for drug supplies, stating that it was the right decision.
He explained that due process was followed in awarding the contracts for the two interchange roads in the metropolitan area, and the records were available for public scrutiny.
Dantiye expressed surprise that Kano APC leaders consistently seek court restrictions on investigations into their activities, questioning their motives.
He challenged them to allow investigations to proceed if they have nothing to hide.
Additionally, Dantiye mentioned that there are calls for the state government to investigate the former first lady’s alleged misuse of local government funds through 44 bank accounts during their two terms.
He assured the people of Kano State that the government of Gov. Abba Yusuf was committed to fulfilling its promises, ensuring accountability, and punishing any misdemeanors and non-compliance with procurement processes in accordance with the law.