Kano gov probes sale of public assets under Ganduje

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has inaugurated two judicial commissions of inquiry to investigate cases of misappropriation of public property, political violence, and missing persons between 2015 and 2023.

During the inauguration of the commissions on Thursday, Governor Yusuf pledged to hold anyone found guilty accountable.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who is the immediate past governor, served between 2015 and 2023.

In a statement issued by his spokesman, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the governor reiterated that investigating the misappropriation of public assets was part of his commitment to uncover and prosecute those responsible for political violence in the state.

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He stated, “Political violence is a significant setback to democracy worldwide. It leads to the loss of lives and property, as well as erodes trust between the people and those in power.

“The alarming cases of political killings, especially in 2023, must not be ignored. This is to ensure that we prevent future occurrences.”

The first commission, headed by Justice Zuwaira Yusuf, will investigate cases of political violence and missing persons from 2015 to 2023.

“We expect them to uncover the criminal network involved, unmask the sponsors, and ensure they face justice. They should also identify the root causes of violence associated with the elections of 2015, 2019, and 2023.”

Inaugurating the second commission of inquiry, led by Justice Faruk Lawan, Governor Abba Kabir gave the mandate to investigate cases of misappropriation of public properties and assets.

He urged Justice Lawan and his team to diligently identify cases of misappropriation of public properties and assets, particularly during the last administration both within and outside the state.

Governor Abba Kabir emphasised that this initiative was not politically motivated or aimed at any individual, but rather a response to the mandate of the people of Kano.

He charged the commissions to uphold their integrity and remain faithful to their oath and the people of Kano, ensuring justice for the state.

Governor Yusuf noted that the selection of commission members was thorough and meticulous, expressing confidence in their ability to deliver as expected.

“We have reviewed your records and found none of you wanting. We believe in your abilities and expect your full reports within 3 months,” he added.

Daily Trust reports that the promise to inaugurate these commissions was part of the first policy statements of the governor upon taking the oath of office on May 29, 2023. He had announced that a judicial commission of inquiry would be established “To ensure that all perpetrators and those who aided and abetted (misappropriation of public property) are brought to justice.”

But the governor’s decision to embark on the demolition of some of the buildings said to have been constructed on public property before the setting up of the commissions had generated uproar and led to the award of huge fines against the government, with many arguing that the governor had decided to put the cart before the horse.