The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has uncovered 26 trailer loads of 50kg rice, valued at over ₦1 billion, allegedly diverted from palliative distribution and stored in a warehouse in the state capital.
During a press briefing at the warehouse on Ring Road on Tuesday, PCACC Chairman Muhyi Magaji Rimin Gado revealed that the discovery was made possible through intelligence provided by concerned residents.
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“One person has been arrested in connection with this shameful act, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend other accomplices who are currently on the run,” Magaji stated.
According to him, the 16,800 bags of rice were intended as palliatives for the last Ramadan festival but were instead diverted to the warehouse, where they were being rebagged under different brands for resale.
Magaji explained, “The rice, originally branded with the name of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and marked ‘Not for sale 50kg Ramadan Kareem,’ was being rebagged into other labels, including ‘Big Mama Rice Premium Quality’ and ‘Elephant Classic Parboiled 100.’”
He further disclosed that the commission had identified 28 trailers involved in the alleged diversion, each carrying 600 bags of rice.
Magaji assured the public that the findings would be reported to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for appropriate action, emphasizing that such incidents of food meant for the poor being diverted and resold would not be tolerated.
“This is an unacceptable act, and we will ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” Magaji declared.
