APC group slams Kano govt of misusing $6.6m loan, ecological funds

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Patriotic Volunteers, led by former Secretary to the Kano State Government, Alhaji Usman Alhaji (Wazirin Gaya), has accused Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration of financial mismanagement and incompetence in the handling of a $6.6 million loan and N5.1 billion in ecological grants allegedly obtained between June and December 2023.

At a press conference in Kano, the group criticised the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP)-led government for what it described as “gross failure” in governance after two years in power.

They called for a comprehensive audit of the administration’s financial dealings, highlighting what they say is a mismatch between the state’s income and developmental outcomes.

“There is little to show for the billions received from FAAC, IGR, and external grants,” Alhaji Usman said.

He cited the governor’s public admission of failure to resolve Kano’s water crisis as indicative of poor leadership.

Kano govt links Northwest University fee hike to NELFUND

The group raised concerns about the alleged misuse of external loans and ecological funds, and criticised the state government for spending over N1.6 billion on fuel and utilities within three months, while neglecting to implement a proposed N70,000 minimum wage for water board staff.

They also accused the administration of relocating the Independent Power Project (IPP) from its original site to the Kwankwasiyya Housing Estate for political reasons, thereby undermining its purpose.

Alhaji Usman further alleged corruption in the 2025 Ramadan feeding programme and the existence of ghost workers in the April salary disbursement.

He decried what he termed as suppression of local government autonomy, claiming LGAs were compelled to fund traditional institutions against legal provisions.

In a controversial statement, the group questioned the legitimacy of the NNPP’s 2023 electoral victory, alleging it was compromised in a political deal that undermined the electorate’s will.

They condemned the ongoing demolition exercise in the state, claiming it defied court orders and caused massive economic losses, with specific references to the K/Mata Eid Ground and Daula Hotel.

The group accused the administration of ignoring court rulings on matters involving the Emirate Council and the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC), warning of growing lawlessness and executive overreach.

On press freedom, the group criticised the government for banning live political radio programmes and barring select media outlets from official coverage.

They commended the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for resisting these actions and defending constitutional rights.

Despite allocating 31% of the 2025 budget to education and declaring a state of emergency in the sector, the group said Kano’s schools remain overcrowded, understaffed, and poorly resourced, especially in rural communities.

They also accused the administration of ignoring several committee reports on pressing issues including drug procurement at the local government level, the Rimin Zakara land dispute, Sallah Day killings, and the stalled Kano Megacity project.

In closing, Alhaji Usman urged anti-corruption agencies and civil society groups to demand accountability from the state government.

“As patriotic citizens, we must speak up and insist on good governance for the people of Kano,” he said.

As of the time of filing this report, the Kano State Government had not responded to the allegations.