THE controversy surrounding the alleged diversion of ₦6.5 billion from the Kano State treasury has taken a new dimension as former State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs and an aide to former APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje,, Muhammad Garba accused the state government of engaging in a “media trial” and resorting to “propaganda” instead of providing clarity on the matter.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday made available to News Point Nigeria, Garba responded to an earlier press release by the Kano State Government dated August 25, 2025, and signed by its Director General of Media, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
Garba said while he ordinarily would not have reacted since the matter is before a competent court of law, he found it necessary to address what he described as “contradictions, half-truths, and political attacks” in the government’s response.
“The government admits the case is before the court but still goes ahead to mount a lengthy media trial. This undermines the sanctity of the judiciary. If the case is truly sub judice, why the propaganda?” Garba queried.
The former commissioner insisted that the fundamental question remains whether or not the ₦6.5bn was withdrawn, stressing that the government’s statement avoided this core issue.
Instead, he said, the government sought to “drag the immediate past administration into an issue that concerns the present government,” arguing that past errors cannot absolve the current administration of accountability.
Garba also faulted the description of the Protocol Directorate as “merely an administrative office,” saying it makes the allegations even more troubling.
“If its functions are strictly within budgetary limits, then providing approvals, vouchers, and retirements for the ₦6.5bn should not be difficult. Why the storytelling instead of evidence?” he asked.
He dismissed repeated references to “opposition,” “enemies of the people,” and “political blackmail” in the government’s release as “a smokescreen,” insisting that public funds belong to the people and asking questions about them is accountability, not propaganda.
Garba challenged the government to publish documents that prove the funds were lawfully utilized rather than issuing lengthy essays and name-calling.
“True transparency is not claimed; it is demonstrated. If the government is as open and accountable as it insists, let it publish the documents that prove the funds were lawfully utilized. Until then, lengthy essays and political name-calling will only deepen public suspicion,” he said.
He concluded by insisting that the people of Kano deserve clarity and transparency, not excuses and propaganda.
