KANO State Government has broken its silence on allegations of diversion of ₦6.5 billion, describing the reports circulating in the media as “false, politically sponsored, and deliberately crafted to smear the image of key officials of the administration.”
In a press statement signed by Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Director General, Media and Publicity to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf made avaialble to News Point Nigeria, the government dismissed the claims as baseless propaganda by the opposition aimed at distracting the NNPP-led administration from its developmental agenda.
The controversy arose following an August 22nd, 2025 publication by Daily Nigerian, a online platform, alleging the withdrawal and diversion of ₦6.5 billion from the state treasury.
Central to the allegation is Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Rogo, Director General of Protocol, Government House, who is already before the High Court on the matter.
The state government explained that the Directorate of Protocol is not an independent spending office, but rather an administrative unit that coordinates logistics, welfare, accommodation, and official engagements for the Governor, visiting dignitaries, and VIPs.
It stressed that all funds allocated to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) are properly budgeted for, with clear codes outlined in the state’s fiscal policy.
“Every action undertaken by the Protocol Office is done within the framework of the law and with the express approval of government under a designated budget code,” the statement read.
The government accused opposition forces of orchestrating a calculated campaign of blackmail to discredit Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s aides.
“Kano State Government is aware of the nefarious activities of a particular opposition group seeking to pull the present administration down,” Bature said.
He alleged that the opposition has gone as far as setting up an office solely dedicated to writing petitions against government officials in order to scandalize them ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The government also took a swipe at former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, accusing him of reckless financial mismanagement. It alleged that Ganduje’s administration spent over ₦20 billion through the Protocol Directorate between February and May 2023, shortly after losing the elections.
Governor Yusuf’s administration reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, transparency, and prudent use of public resources, insisting it has nothing to hide.
“The people of Kano State are therefore urged to see through this plot for what it is: an orchestrated smear campaign intended to distract the government from its people-centered programmes.
“These falsehoods will not succeed,” the statement noted.
While the government welcomed constructive criticism, it warned that it would not hesitate to pursue legal action against individuals or groups who persist in spreading “lies and misinformation” to tarnish its image.
The statement concluded by emphasizing that the government remains focused on delivering on its promises, attracting investment, and building a corruption-free Kano State.
“As the case is already before a court of competent jurisdiction, Kano State Government will refrain from further comments until the matter is determined,” Bature added.