The Kano Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has uncovered a warehouse allegedly repackaging 16,800 bags of rice palliatives meant for federal government distribution, reportedly for sale in the open market.
The rice, marked ‘Not for Sale’ and bearing the image of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was believed to have been distributed as part of last year’s Ramadan palliative initiative.3The warehouse, situated along the Hotoro Ring Road near Farin Masallaci, reportedly contained 28 trucks loaded with bags of rice.
During the operation, PCACC Chairman Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado stated, “This is in respect of an investigation into allegations that some individuals are exploiting government intervention by rebagging rice meant for palliatives. They are rebagging and repackaging rice intended for public distribution.
“This is a clear form of corruption, and considering the hardship we are experiencing in the country, somebody has the effrontery to come here and start repackaging it. Look at it—they are in the process. We have seen it, and we are taking appropriate measures now.
“An investigation will be conducted thoroughly and with all vigor to uncover everyone involved. So far, we have made one arrest, and we will ensure that all those responsible are identified. We will take all legal actions to put an end to such activities.
“There are 28 trucks here, and if you multiply that by 600 bags per truck, the actual quantity is significant. A bag today costs N82,000, amounting to about N1.3 billion.”