Kano Anti-Graft Agency Freezes ₦160 Million in Contract Scam, Summons Kwankwaso’s Nephew
The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has frozen a bank account linked to a significant contract scam involving local government funds, seizing over ₦160 million. This development is part of a broader investigation into an alleged misuse of funds related to drug supply contracts awarded to Novomed Pharmaceuticals, a company owned by Musa Garba Kwankwaso, nephew of former governor and influential political figure, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso.
The Scandal Unfolds
The controversy centers around a dubious contract awarded to Novomed Pharmaceuticals for the supply of medical drugs to the 44 local government areas in Kano State. Each local government was reportedly required to contribute about ₦9 million monthly for the supply, amounting to a total of ₦396 million monthly. Allegations surfaced that these contracts were awarded without following the proper public procurement processes, raising concerns about corruption and abuse of power [❞] [❞].
The scandal gained public attention when Bello Galadanchi, a US-based Nigerian filmmaker, claimed that the state government directed local councils to make payments of approximately ₦10 million each under questionable circumstances. According to Galadanchi, 25 local governments have already remitted payments to Novomed Pharmaceuticals for the month of August [❞] [❞].
Summoning Key Figures
As the investigation intensifies, the PCACC has issued invitations to key individuals implicated in the scandal, including Musa Garba Kwankwaso. He is expected to answer questions regarding his company's role in the contract and provide explanations for the irregularities in the process. Other high-ranking officials, such as the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Local Governments and the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Kano State, have also been summoned [❞] [❞].
In addition to the frozen ₦160 million, the commission is working to recover an additional ₦440 million, suspected to have been misappropriated as part of the broader corruption scheme [❞].
Legal and Political Implications
The case has significant political ramifications, especially as it involves prominent members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, a political group led by Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State, who came into office in March 2024, has distanced himself from the contract, ordering a full investigation into the matter. He denied any prior knowledge of the deal, emphasizing his administration's commitment to transparency and accountability [❞] [❞].
Critics have questioned the transparency of the local government interim management committees, which were appointed by Governor Yusuf after the expiration of the tenure of the elected council chairmen. Allegations of misconduct have been raised, with some officials admitting to deviations from the state's Public Procurement Law, claiming that such practices had become conventional [❞].
Broader Investigations
The PCACC's investigation has not only focused on the drug contract but has also expanded to other areas of potential corruption. Inquiries into a ₦660 million contract for borehole repairs across the 44 local governments revealed further discrepancies. Investigators uncovered evidence suggesting that the funds allocated for these repairs may have been misused, with local officials unable to account for the substantial expenditure [❞].
Despite the complexity of the case, the PCACC Chairman, Muhuyi Magaji, has vowed to pursue the investigation to its conclusion. He affirmed that all those involved in the scam will be held accountable and that the commission will ensure the recovery of public funds [❞] [❞].
Conclusion
The Kano contract scandal highlights the ongoing battle against corruption in Nigeria's public sector, particularly at the local government level. The involvement of high-profile figures and the significant sums of money at stake have made this case a crucial test for anti-corruption efforts in the region. As the investigation continues, the public awaits further developments, with the hope that justice will be served and that governance will be more transparent and accountable in the future.
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