Kano govt reacts to alleged N6.5bn diversion, withdrawal by aide

The Kano State Government has dismissed reports alleging the diversion and withdrawal of ₦6.5 billion from the state treasury by one of its aides.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Director General of Media and Publicity to the Governor, Sanusi Bature, described the claims as baseless and misleading. He emphasized that all government financial processes in Kano are strictly regulated by laid-down rules and budgetary provisions.

Bature clarified that all cash releases to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) follow due process, with properly defined budget codes outlined in the state’s fiscal policy. According to him, no individual in government has direct access to public funds outside of approved purposes.

He clarified that the Directorate of Protocol at the Government House, which was mentioned in reports, handles logistics, accommodation, welfare, and official itineraries of the governor, visiting dignitaries, and other state guests. He noted that while the office manages large volumes of transactions, all expenditures are carried out within the framework of the law and budgetary approvals.

“The Office of Protocol is not an independent spending office and does not undertake any financial transactions outside established rules and approvals,” he said.

Bature further reiterated that the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf remains committed to financial prudence, accountability, transparency, and zero tolerance for corruption.

The government also restated its openness to lawful and constructive criticism but maintained that it would continue to clarify issues to avoid public misinformation.