Flood-hit Kano State Faces Closely Scrutinized Relief Efforts
Nigeria’s All Progressives Congress (APC), in Kano State, has announced its intention to closely monitor the utilization of the N3 billion aid package released by the federal government to address the severe flood disasters affecting the region. The move comes following allegations of corruption and diversions of relief materials worth 130 trucks of food, intended for the beleaguered population of Kano.
Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, Chairman of the APC party, expressed concerns over the alleged mismanagement of emergency funds, stating that his party will ensure transparency and accountability in the use of the allocated funds. His remarks were made during an interview with newsmen in Kano on Sunday.
Abbas further reiterated that the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP)-led government in Kano is hindering the government’s efforts to alleviate poverty and hunger in the affected areas. He claimed that President Bola Tinubu has approved several palliative measures for vulnerable households but that those responsible for distribution have been diverting the allocated resources.
The APC chairperson also pointed out cases of senior NNPP officials allegedly involved in the siphoning of palliative materials. He specifically singled out Dr. Tukur Dayyabu Minjibir, managing director of the State Agricultural Supply Company (KASCO), who was reported to be selling grains owned by the state government to personal interests.
Abbas emphasized that the APC will closely monitor the use of emergency funds to prevent any instance of corruption and ensure that funds are utilized for their designated purposes. He also reiterated that the federal government, through a committee led by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibril, had taken steps to oversee a fair distribution of palliatives in the state.
Residents of Kano State had been severely affected by heavy flooding, leaving many with limited access to basic needs such as food and water. The situation has elicited widespread concern, with advocacy groups and international organizations advocating for increased support to disaster-stricken communities.
