The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has launched an investigation into the alleged diversion of over ₦4 billion belonging to the state government into the Dala Inland Dry Port project.
The probe follows claims that the state’s equity stake in the venture was transferred to the family of former governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
Findings revealed that the alleged diversion occurred after Kano State’s 20 per cent equity in the multi-billion-naira project was reportedly converted to private ownership in 2020, effectively removing the state as a co-owner of the inland port.
Sources said the ₦4 billion was purportedly used to award a contract for the provision of infrastructure at the port, even though the state no longer held any shares in the company.
The Commission’s Chairman, Mr. Saidu Yahya, confirmed the development on Sunday, saying the investigation was triggered by petitions from concerned citizens over the alleged misappropriation.
“Yes, we received petitions from the public on the alleged diversion of over ₦4 billion of Kano State funds into the Dala Inland Dry Port by the immediate past administration,” Yahya said.
He disclosed that several persons of interest had been invited for questioning, while one suspect was arrested and later granted bail after providing what he described as “vital information.”
According to him, “Our findings indicate that one of the parties involved is currently in Yola, Adamawa State. The matter has reached an advanced stage and will soon be charged to court as a prima facie case has already been established.”
The Dala Inland Dry Port project, conceived as a major logistics hub to boost trade and industrial growth in northern Nigeria, has been under scrutiny since reports emerged that the state lost its ownership stake under controversial circumstances.
The PCACC has assured the public that the ongoing investigation will be pursued to its logical conclusion in line with its mandate to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.
NAN