Kano, Nigeria – The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission has initiated an investigation into the alleged fraud that marred the recent disbursement of empowerment funds to street hawkers by Governor Abba Yusuf.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday, the Commission’s Chairman, Muhuyi Rimin-Gado, confirmed the ongoing probe, stating that the commission aims to identify and prosecute those involved in the scam.
“The commission is investigating the matter and anyone found involved would be brought to justice,” Rimin-Gado said. “We are determined to prevent corruption from undermining the integrity of the government’s empowerment initiative and ensure that justice is served.”
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The investigation was prompted by a viral video showing officials allegedly coercing beneficiaries to surrender a significant portion of the N50,000 grants they had received during the disbursement ceremony.
NAN reports that Governor Yusuf had recently awarded N50,000 each to 465 street hawkers to help boost their businesses. However, a 60-second video surfaced in which one beneficiary, Malam Nura Isa, claimed he was forced by officials to return N45,000 of the N50,000 cash given to him.
Isa alleged that he was among about 100 beneficiaries who were cornered by officials and told to comply “in their own interest.”
Further reports indicated that many of those shortlisted for the scheme were denied access to the event’s venue, with their benefits allegedly handed over to impostors.
The commission’s investigation aims to address these claims and ensure that such corrupt practices do not undermine the government‘s efforts to support small businesses and empower street hawkers in Kano State.
