APC alleges medical supply contract fraud in Kano LGAs, seeks EFCC probe

The All Progressives Congress in Kano State has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to probe the medical supply contract to 44 local governments in the state.

A statement by the state APC chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, also called for the immediate freezing of the accounts of the 44 local governments in the state to stop alleged plundering of their resources in the name of joint projects.

He said the admission by Governor Abba Yusuf that he was not aware of the sleeze, is a clear indication that he is either not in control or lacks capacity to lead the state.

Abbas described as laughable the directive given to the state Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission to probe the matter.

The chairman pointed out that going by his antecedents, chairman of the commission, Muhyi Magaji Rimin Gado is partisan, compromised and lack the power to investigate the scandal allegedly involving the immediate family members of the governor’s father in-law and embattled leader of the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party in the state, Sen. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso.

He noted that the scandal is the latest in a series of financial recklessness allegedly involving officials of the NNPP government.

Abbas recalled that the state government awarded controversial contracts worth N27 billion for the construction of two interchange bridges at Dan-Agundi and Tal’udu junction in the metropolis, the payment of which would be shared in a 30/70 ratio between the state and the 44 local governments.

The chairman said there were still financial allegations that are either not probed or not properly investigated involving government, its officials and appointees.

He said these included diversion and repackaging of palliatives by a political appointee attached to Cabinet Office, sale of properties at Radio Kano, missing funds at Abubakar Rimi Television, illegal sale of palliatives at the state Agricultural and Rural Development Authority, diversion of Federal  Government’s palliatives traced to the private residence of the Chief of Staff, Government House, Kano.

When contacted, Commissioner of Information Baba Dantiye commended the state Governor for directing an immediate investigation into the contract for drug supplies, stating it was the right decision.

He assured the people of Kano State that the government of Governor Abba Yusuf “is committed to fulfilling its promises of ensuring accountability, and punishing any misdemeanour and non-compliance with procurement processes in accordance with the law.