The Kano State Government has dismissed reports alleging the diversion of ₦6.5bn from the state treasury, describing them as false, politically motivated, and aimed at discrediting its officials.
The clarification followed a report published which claimed that funds were misappropriated by key aides of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The government said the allegation is already before a court but insisted the public must know the facts.
Sanusi Bature DawakinTofa, Director General of Media and Publicity to the Governor, through a statement on Monday said:
“Every cash outflow into Ministries, Departments, and Agencies is properly budgeted with clear codes well spelt out in the fiscal policy of the state. Hence, no individual in government MDAs handles public funds without proper designated purpose.”
He explained that the Directorate of Protocol, headed by Alh. Abdullahi Rogo, plays a key role in logistics, accommodation, welfare, and managing the governor’s itineraries at home and abroad.
According to him, the office also provides logistics for VIPs and VVIPs, including the Presidency, foreign dignitaries, and other state visitors.
Bature noted that over 95% of the responsibilities of the Protocol Directorate involve financial transactions on behalf of the state but stressed that all expenditures are within budgetary provisions and approvals.
“The administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf will remain focused on governance and maintain its position on financial prudence, accountability, transparency, and zero tolerance for corruption. The government will not sacrifice the integrity of its aides to deliberate acts of political blackmail,” he said.
The statement also defended the credibility of Rogo, saying:
“The government is also not in doubt of the credibility of the Director General, Directorate of Protocol, Government House, Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Rogo.”
Accusing the opposition of orchestrating the allegations, Bature alleged that the group is “using the digital space to overblow the matter to misinform the general public.”
He further reminded residents of alleged corruption under former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, citing the dollar-video scandal and claims of reckless spending.
On the role of the Protocol Office, the government stressed:
“It is not an independent spending office and does not undertake any financial transactions outside established rules and approvals. Every action undertaken by the Protocol Office is done within the framework of the law and with the express approval of the government under a designated budget code.”
He government Kano state government has nothing to hide, but will also take legal action against moves to tarnish it.
“As the case stands before a court of competent jurisdiction, Kano State Government will remain indifferent on this matter till the case is determined at the appropriate time,” Bature added.
₦6.5bn diversion claim false, politically motivated – Kano govt defends official
