Kano denies diversion of ₦6.5bn, blames opposition for blackmail

The Kano State Government has dismissed reports alleging the diversion of ₦6.5 billion from the state treasury, describing them as politically motivated falsehoods aimed at discrediting key officials of the Abba Kabir Yusuf administration.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Director General of Media and Publicity, Sanusi Bature DawakinTofa, the government said the allegations—first reported by Daily Nigerian on August 22—were sponsored by opposition elements bent on tarnishing the image of the administration ahead of the 2027 elections.

The statement clarified that the Directorate of Protocol at Government House, central to the allegations, only carries out administrative and logistical duties such as welfare, accommodation, state visits, and coordination of official engagements, all under approved budgetary provisions.

“No individual in government handles public funds without designated purposes. Every action undertaken by the Protocol Office is within the framework of the law and subject to approval under a designated budget code,” the statement read.

The government also expressed confidence in the integrity of the Director-General of Protocol, Alhaji Abdullahi Rogo, stressing that he and other officials are ready to provide clarifications to anti-graft agencies whenever required.

While maintaining its commitment to transparency and accountability, the Yusuf administration accused the opposition of orchestrating a smear campaign, recalling alleged corruption scandals under former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, including the widely circulated dollar-video and claims of reckless spending in the twilight of his tenure.

“The people of Kano should see these allegations for what they are: a smear campaign intended to distract the government from its people-centred programmes. These falsehoods will not succeed,” the statement added.

The government cautioned opposition groups and media platforms against spreading misinformation, warning that it may seek legal redress against those who persist in maligning its officials.

The matter is already before a court of competent jurisdiction.