The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has frozen an account tied to a suspected local government contract scam, blocking N160 million and aiming to recover an additional N440 million. Investigations are ongoing, with key figures being questioned.
On Thursday, Musa Garba Kwankwaso, a nephew of Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso and owner of Novomed Pharmaceuticals, is set to be interrogated regarding his company’s role in the alleged scam. The contract, reportedly awarded without proper procedures, requires each local government to pay around N9 million monthly, totaling N396 million across the state.
The issue was highlighted by filmmaker Bello Galadanchi, who accused the state government of directing 44 local councils to pay nearly N10 million each for drug supplies, with the contract solely awarded to Novomed Pharmaceuticals. So far, 25 local governments have allegedly made payments for August.
Governor Yusuf, denying any involvement in the contract, ordered an investigation. The PCACC chairman, Muhuyi Magaji, confirmed that invitations have been issued to several officials, including the permanent secretary of the Ministry for Local Governments and other key local government figures for questioning.