Gov Yusuf warns Kano LG chairmen against public funds diversion

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has issued a strong warning to local government chairmen against the misuse of council funds, emphasizing that such actions will not be tolerated.

He cautioned that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) would take swift action against any official found guilty of financial misconduct, particularly in contract awards and project execution.

Speaking on Saturday through the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Taju Mohammad Lookman, at a three-day seminar on financial regulations and anti-corruption, Governor Yusuf reaffirmed the financial autonomy of local governments and stressed that corruption would not be condoned.

“It is the responsibility of the local government chairmen to award contracts and pay for the projects awarded. However the interest of the state government is ensuring execution and delivery of the projects. Failure to do that will attract the involvement of Anti-Corruption.

“The state government will not interfere in the running of their affairs because we respect their financial autonomy, but the chairmen should note that anti-graft agencies are monitoring their activities to prevent corruption,” the governor said.

He further emphasized that the government had directed the Anti-Corruption Commission to detect, investigate, prosecute, and recover stolen funds from any indicted council chairman.

“Government will continue to strengthen the commission to fight corrupt acts in government,” he added.

According in reports, the Kano Zonal Director of the EFCC, Ibrahim Shazali, had previously highlighted the economic and social consequences of corruption.

He urged the council chairpersons to uphold integrity and accountability, stressing the importance of maintaining public trust.