The Kano State Government has strongly denied allegations that its Director-General of Protocol, Abdullahi Ibrahim Rogo, diverted N6.5 billion in state funds, describing the claims as politically motivated and aimed at discrediting Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration ahead of the 2027 elections.
This comes amid ongoing investigations by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Both agencies are probing alleged misuse of public funds through a network of front companies, bureau de change operators, and personal accounts allegedly linked to Rogo.
In a statement issued Monday by Sanusi Bature, the state’s Director-General of Media and Publicity, the government described the allegations as a smear campaign orchestrated by opposition forces, warning that such tactics would not derail its commitment to good governance.
“Without prejudice to the ongoing court proceedings, we owe the public a duty to clarify the operations of the Directorate of Protocol. It functions similarly to protocol offices in other states and the federal government,” the statement said.
The government emphasized that all financial dealings within Kano State’s Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) are guided by clearly defined budget lines and expenditure codes.
No official, it said, has discretionary access to funds outside approved allocations.
It further explained that the Protocol Directorate primarily handles logistics, accommodation, and welfare for the governor and visiting dignitaries, noting that over 95% of its responsibilities involve financial transactions often settled on behalf of the state.
“We remain confident in the integrity of Abdullahi Rogo and reject these politically charged allegations,” the statement added.
In a sharp counterattack, the Yusuf administration accused the previous government, led by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, of massive financial impropriety.
It claimed over N20 billion was withdrawn through the Protocol Directorate between February and May 2023 alone.
The government also referenced the controversial “dollar-bribe” video involving Ganduje and alleged illegal land acquisitions and asset takeovers by his associates.
“Kano State has nothing to hide. All officials, including the DG of Protocol, are open to cooperating with anti-graft agencies,” Bature said.
“However, the state will not hesitate to take legal action against individuals or groups spreading falsehoods.”
While affirming its commitment to transparency, the government stated that it would refrain from further public commentary as the case is already before a court.
Despite the state’s position, ICPC officials have reportedly recovered N1.3 billion linked to Rogo, allegedly funneled through front companies and personal accounts.
Two of his Zenith Bank accounts have reportedly been frozen under a Post No Debit order.
ICPC also criticized a recent court ruling that restrained further investigations and awarded Rogo N2 million in damages, saying the judgment threatens efforts to hold public officials accountable.
