Kano Anti-Corruption Commission Blocks N160 Million in Alleged Contract Scam

The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has successfully secured a post-no-debit order on an account linked to an alleged local government contract scam, blocking N160 million while aiming to recover an additional N440 million.

Investigators are continuing their probe, with key figures expected to be questioned. Among those set to be grilled is Musa Garba Kwankwaso, nephew of Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, and owner of Novomed Pharmaceuticals. Kwankwaso’s company is at the center of the scandal, which involves a contract allegedly awarded without due process. The contract required each local government to pay around N9 million monthly, totaling N396 million every month.

The scandal was brought to light by Bello Galadanchi, a Nigerian filmmaker based in the United States, who claimed that the state government directed 44 local government councils to pay approximately N10 million each for drug supplies. The contract was reportedly awarded solely to Novomed Pharmaceuticals.

So far, 25 local governments, including Tofa, Bebeji, and Dambatta, have allegedly made payments to the company’s account for August.

Criticism has been directed at the interim management committees of the local governments, appointed by Governor Yusuf in March, for a perceived lack of transparency. Last week, Governor Yusuf distanced himself from the contract, denied prior knowledge, and ordered an immediate investigation.

In an exclusive interview with Daily Trust, PCACC Chairman Muhuyi Magaji stated, “We’ve already issued invitations to about five or six individuals, including the permanent secretary of the Ministry for Local Governments, the Director of Planning, and the Director of Local Government Inspection.” The commission has also summoned other key officials, including the chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Kano State.