Political stakeholders, civil society groups, and legal observers in Kano State are raising concerns over reports that Murtala Sule Garo may be appointed Deputy Governor at a time when he is involved in ongoing corruption proceedings.
Critics say the potential appointment could complicate efforts to prosecute high-profile financial cases linked to local government funds.
According to sources familiar with the State Executive Council, Garo, who previously served as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, “wields significant influence due to his previous oversight of local government allocations,” with some suggesting this influence could affect governance dynamics.
Stakeholders further note that his leadership style has been described by some as “centralized and assertive,” which, they say, may present challenges if translated into the Deputy Governor role.
Reports indicate that former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and his wife, Hafsat Ganduje, are among those reportedly supporting Garo’s elevation. Observers suggest this support may be linked to political strategy, although no direct evidence has been presented.
Garo is currently facing trial alongside the Gandujes over the alleged diversion of ₦57.4 billion in local government funds. The case, filed by the Kano State Government, involves multiple witnesses and complex financial transactions.
Legal analysts caution that if appointed Deputy Governor, Garo would gain immunity under Section 308 of the Nigerian Constitution, which could pause proceedings.
Mr. Usman Bello, a senior legal expert, told Kano Times: “Granting immunity to a sitting defendant could affect the pace of ongoing trials, though it does not imply guilt or innocence.”
Civil society actors are calling for careful consideration of governance and rule-of-law implications.
Comrade Bello Abubakar Ginsau, an activist with the Kano Governance and Accountability Forum, said: “The timing of any appointment amid ongoing trials should be carefully weighed. Accountability and transparency must remain central in all decisions.”
Political watchers in Kano are closely monitoring developments, including whether the proposed appointment proceeds and its potential impact on the state’s legal and governance landscape.
