The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has opened a full-scale investigation into the alleged diversion of more than N4 billion of state funds into the Dala Inland Dry Port project during the administration of former governor Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
The anti-graft agency said the probe followed several petitions alleging that the Ganduje-led administration injected over N4bn into the inland port project, despite Kano State having been stripped of its equity ownership.
According to findings, the state originally held a 20 per cent equity stake in the multi-billion-naira project.
However, in 2020, that equity was allegedly converted to the personal ownership of Ganduje’s family, with his children reportedly listed as directors and shareholders in the company.
Despite this, the government under Ganduje allegedly awarded contracts worth billions of naira for infrastructural support to the project, effectively committing public funds into a venture the state no longer owned.
A PREMIUM TIMES investigation had earlier exposed the alleged transfer of Kano’s equity to Ganduje’s family, raising questions of abuse of office, conflict of interest, and mismanagement of public resources.
Confirming the fresh investigation, PCACC Chairman Mr. Saidu Yahya told journalists in Kano that the case had reached an advanced stage.
“Yes, we received petitions from the public on the alleged diversion of over N4bn of Kano State funds into the Dala Inland Dry Port by the immediate past administration of Gov. Abdullahi Ganduje,” Yahya said.
He added: “So far, persons of interest have been invited. One of them was arrested and later released on bail after providing vital information. Investigation also revealed that one of the key parties has relocated to Yola, Adamawa State.”
The chairman disclosed that a prima facie case had already been established against those involved, stressing that the matter would be charged to court once the investigation is concluded.
“The Commission will not relent in its duty to protect public resources. We are determined to ensure that whoever is found culpable will face the law,” Yahya assured.
The development has further deepened scrutiny on Ganduje, who is already battling multiple allegations of corruption, including the widely publicised “dollar bribery video” scandal. Critics say the Dala Inland Dry Port case highlights what they describe as a systematic plundering of Kano’s resources during his tenure.
Meanwhile, public interest groups in Kano have urged the PCACC to ensure transparency and pursue the matter to a logical conclusion, warning against political interference
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