The Kano State government has launched an investigation into a N440 million drug supply contract, which is suspected of violating procurement laws.
The probe was initiated following allegations from Dr. Bello Galadanci, a media content creator, who accused officials of siphoning N10 million from each of the 44 local government accounts, allegedly directing the funds to Novomed Pharmaceuticals for the purchase of medical supplies.
In a letter dated July 18, 2024, the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) summoned key officials from the Ministry for Local Government to clarify their involvement in the transaction.
Among those summoned are the Chairman and Secretary of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), the Chairman and PRO of the DPM Forum, as well as the Director of Local Government Inspection and the Director of Planning.
Dr. Galadanci has accused the Kano State Government of bypassing legal procedures in awarding the contract to Novomed Pharmaceuticals, which he claims led to the diversion of N10 million per local government.
Governor Abba Yusuf has denied any knowledge of the alleged diversion, stating, “My administration is committed to transparency and will not tolerate any form of corruption.”
In a joint statement, Kano State Commissioner for Information, Baba Dantiye, and the governor’s spokesman, Sanusi Bature, confirmed that the governor has ordered an investigation into the allegations.
The statement highlighted that the Executive Chairman of the PCACC, Muhyi Magaji, has been directed to lead the inquiry and report back with findings for further action.
The officials named in the PCACC’s letter are scheduled to appear before the Commission on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 11:00 AM.
