The Kano State Government has vehemently denied accusations of a N6.5 billion embezzlement scheme allegedly orchestrated by political aides, specifically implicating Abdullahi Rogo, the Director-General of Protocol to the Governor. The allegations, currently under scrutiny in the Federal High Court in Kano, claim that Rogo diverted public funds through a complex network of shell companies, Bureau De Change operators, and personal accounts. The government, through a statement released by Sanusi Tofa, Director-General of Media and Publicity, categorically dismissed the claims as baseless fabrications fueled by political motivations. They welcomed constructive criticism but warned against malicious attempts to tarnish the reputation of government officials and incite public unrest. The government emphasized its commitment to seeking legal redress against those propagating such unfounded allegations.
The government’s response specifically addressed an August 22, 2025 publication, labeling it a politically motivated narrative likely sponsored by adversaries seeking to undermine the administration. They underscored the stringent financial protocols in place, emphasizing that all disbursements to ministries, departments, and agencies are meticulously budgeted with clear codes outlined in the state’s fiscal policy. This, they argued, precludes the possibility of individual officials handling public funds without proper authorization and designated purposes. The government defended the Protocol Directorate’s functions, highlighting its crucial role in logistics, welfare arrangements for the governor and visiting dignitaries, and management of the governor’s itinerary. These responsibilities, they explained, necessitate substantial financial transactions, often involving settling liabilities incurred on behalf of the state.
Furthermore, the government affirmed its unwavering confidence in Rogo’s integrity, emphasizing that they would not sacrifice their aides to politically motivated blackmail campaigns orchestrated by detractors. They attributed the allegations to a specific opposition group actively engaged in a smear campaign aimed at destabilizing the administration. The government claimed that this group is leveraging the digital space to disseminate misinformation and mislead the public. They assured the citizens of Kano State of the government’s transparency, asserting that all officials, including Rogo, are prepared to cooperate fully with anti-graft agencies and provide necessary explanations whenever required.
The Kano State Government urged the public to recognize these accusations as a deliberate attempt to distract the administration from its focus on people-centric programs. They expressed confidence that these fabricated allegations would ultimately fail to derail their commitment to serving the people diligently. Reiterating their commitment to transparency, accountability, and prudent financial management, the government underlined their resolve to uphold the public trust. They declared that no amount of propaganda or media trials would deter their dedication to serving the people of Kano State.
The government’s response paints a picture of a resolute administration determined to defend its reputation against what it perceives as a politically orchestrated smear campaign. Their emphatic denial of the embezzlement allegations, coupled with their staunch defense of Rogo, suggests a belief in his innocence and a willingness to confront the accusations head-on. By highlighting their financial protocols and emphasizing their commitment to transparency, the government seeks to reassure the public of their responsible stewardship of public funds. The identification of a specific opposition group as the source of these allegations underscores the political undercurrents at play and suggests a potentially escalating conflict between the ruling administration and its detractors.
The ongoing legal proceedings in the Federal High Court will ultimately determine the veracity of the embezzlement allegations and the fate of those implicated. In the meantime, the Kano State Government’s robust response and their declared readiness to cooperate with investigations signal their determination to address the issue transparently and maintain public trust. The clash between the government’s narrative of a politically motivated smear campaign and the serious allegations of financial misconduct creates a compelling drama that will undoubtedly continue to unfold in the public arena. The outcome of this situation will not only impact the individuals involved but also potentially shape the political landscape of Kano State.
