Kano orders probe into N1.5bn workers’ deductions

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has directed an investigation into allegations that N1.5 billion was deducted from workers’ funds under the former Head of Service, Abdullahi Musa.

The governor issued the directive on Friday during the Workers’ Day event, following concerns raised by the Kano State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Kabiru Inuwa.

Yusuf said he had immediately instructed the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Faruq Ibrahim, to constitute a committee to probe the allegation.

“I have directed that an investigative committee be set up without delay to examine the claims. If anyone is found culpable, the government will take decisive action and ensure full recovery of the funds,” the governor said.

He assured workers that his administration would not tolerate financial misconduct and would enforce accountability.

On workers’ welfare, Yusuf disclosed that his government had cleared N32 billion out of the N48 billion backlog of gratuities and death benefits inherited from the previous administration. He pledged to settle the remaining N16 billion before the end of his tenure.

The governor acknowledged the hardship caused by the backlog, particularly for retirees and families of deceased workers, but noted that sustained efforts had significantly reduced the burden.

He also highlighted reforms aimed at improving the civil service, including the establishment of a Local Government Service Commission to streamline career progression for local government workers.

According to him, the administration has increased the minimum pension from N5,000 to N20,000, a move he said has improved the living conditions of retirees.

Earlier, Inuwa urged the state government to thoroughly investigate the alleged N1.5 billion deduction and address disparities between the salaries of state and local government workers to boost morale and ensure fairness.