Top Kano Officials Busted in Multi-Million Naira Drug Scam—Governor Orders Immediate Probe
In a shocking development, the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has arrested five high-ranking officials, including Kwankwaso’s Nephew, Alhaji Mohammed Kabara, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, over a multi-million naira drug supply scam.
Also in custody is Alhaji Abdullahi Bashir, Chairman of the state’s Association for Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) and Chairman of Tauroni Local Government Area. The PCACC has further summoned Musa Garba, Managing Director of Novomed Pharmaceuticals, along with a nephew of former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, for questioning.
The investigation centers on a contract for the supply of drugs and medical equipment, allegedly awarded in violation of state procurement laws and without the approval of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. Insiders reveal that ₦402.6 million was illegally funneled into the deal, with ₦347.7 million already paid out by 38 local governments before the PCACC stepped in.
This scandal has raised serious concerns about corruption within the state’s local governments. Critics have pointed fingers at the interim management committees appointed by Governor Yusuf in March, accusing them of lacking transparency.
Governor Yusuf, who has denied any prior knowledge of the deal, has ordered an immediate investigation to uncover the full extent of the alleged corruption. “We will ensure that all those involved in this illegal act are held accountable,” vowed a source close to the PCACC.
The scandal first came to light when US-born Nigerian filmmaker Bello Galadanchi exposed the controversial contract, alleging that each of the state’s 44 local councils was directed to pay ₦10 million to Novomed Pharmaceuticals. Payments have reportedly already been made by 25 local governments.
As the investigation unfolds, Kano residents await further revelations in what is shaping up to be one of the state’s biggest corruption scandals in recent memory.
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