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APC Using State Creation To Deceive Nigerians Ahead Of 2027 – CHRICED

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The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using the proposed creation of 30 new states as a political strategy to manipulate Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Describing the move as a distraction from the country’s worsening economic and security crises, CHRICED labeled it a “grand deception” orchestrated by the APC-led government.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, CHRICED’s Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim Zikirullahi, argued that the APC is merely using the state creation agenda as bait to gain political support, despite knowing that the proposal is unrealistic.

His remarks followed reports that the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution had received proposals for the creation of 30 new states across the country.

Zikirullahi dismissed the move as a political ploy aimed at misleading the public, warning that it would worsen Nigeria’s financial crisis, given that many existing states are already struggling to meet their financial obligations without federal allocations.

“This initiative, which ostensibly aims to address the creation of new states, starkly reflects a troubling misallocation of priorities and a profound insensitivity to the myriad struggles faced by ordinary Nigerians. It is disheartening to witness elected officials, who are meant to represent the interests of their constituents, engaging in such tactics that seem more focused on political manoeuvring than on genuine governance.”

He further argued that the timing of the proposal suggests a calculated attempt to deceive citizens as the 2027 elections approach.

“We interpret this proposal as a calculated strategy designed to mislead unsuspecting citizens into rallying behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the 2027 general elections draw near. The timing and nature of this initiative suggest that its proponents are fully aware of its impracticality and the challenges that lie ahead.”

“The process may be initiated with much fanfare, but we anticipate that it will ultimately be stalled as the elections approach, conveniently justified by the need to take a recess for election activities.

“This tactic serves to create a false sense of hope among those residing in the proposed ‘new states,’ leading them to believe that their support for the APC will somehow translate into the realisation of state creation.”

Zikirullahi also alleged that the APC is using the proposal as a political tool to lure opposition lawmakers into defecting, as many now believe that only the ruling party can guarantee the creation of new states for their constituencies.

He criticized lawmakers for focusing on state creation while neglecting urgent national issues such as inflation, unemployment, insecurity, and the declining value of the naira.

“The current economic climate has left millions of Nigerians struggling to survive, yet our lawmakers are more interested in increasing the cost of governance rather than fixing the economy. This proposal is a gross misallocation of priorities.

“Instead of multiplying unviable states, Nigeria should streamline its governance structure, cut waste, and devolve powers to regional governments. That is the real path to national development.”

However, Zikirullahi acknowledged that one aspect of the proposal deserves serious consideration—the constitutional recognition of Abuja as the 37th state in Nigeria.

“Currently, the original inhabitants grapple with a myriad of challenges, including statelessness, which leaves them without the rights and privileges afforded to citizens of recognised states. Additionally, they face landlessness, as many have been displaced from their ancestral lands due to urban development and government policies.”

“This situation has led to political marginalisation, where their voices and needs are often overlooked in the national discourse, and economic hardship as they struggle to access basic services and opportunities for livelihood.”

CHRICED called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and resist any political gimmicks aimed at turning the country into a one-party state, warning that unchecked power consolidation by the APC could lead to dictatorship.

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Enugu Assembly Moves To Stop Police, EFCC From Indiscriminate Phone Searches

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Dailygazettenig
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The Enugu State House of Assembly has passed a motion urging security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Police and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to stop the indiscriminate and random searches of individuals’ mobile phones in the state.

The motion, sponsored by Rt. Hon. Chima Obieze and co-sponsored by Hon. Okechukwu Mbah, Hon. Iloabuchi Aniagu, Hon. Engr. Amuka Williams, Hon. Jane Eneh, Hon. Osita Okoh, Hon. Chukwuma Ekwueme, and Hon. Johnson Ani, highlighted the growing violation of citizens’ privacy rights by security operatives.

According to Obieze, the practice directly contravenes Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees the right to privacy, stating that:

“The privacy of citizens, their homes, correspondence, telephone conversations and telegraphic communications is hereby guaranteed and protected.”

He also pointed out that both the Police Act and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act set legal boundaries on searches and seizures, emphasizing that:

“It is thrice important that even in the enforcement of laws, the rights and dignity of citizens are not only observed but adequately protected.”

Obieze further referenced Section 7 of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) 2011, which prohibits unauthorized access to personal information, stating that:

“A public institution shall not disclose personal information about an individual… unless the disclosure is necessary to comply with a legal obligation… or with the consent of the individual.”

Additionally, he cited Section 19 of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015, which makes unauthorized access to computer systems or networks—including mobile phones—an offense:

“A person who intentionally accesses a computer system or network without authorization… commits an offense.”

The lawmaker emphasized that:

“The Police Act and the Nigeria Police Force Regulations do not explicitly authorize the police to invade citizens’ privacy by searching their phones without a warrant or consent.”

He also clarified that while the EFCC Act empowers the Commission to investigate economic and financial crimes, it does not provide blanket authority to violate citizens’ privacy outside legal procedures.

Obieze stressed the need for professionalism and civility among security operatives, stating that:

“While we commend the efforts of our law enforcement agents in the state, it is equally important that we insist that they employ the highest level of professionalism and civility in carrying out their duties. The fundamental rights of our citizens and constituents must be ranked first. No citizen deserves to be humiliated, intimidated, or brutalized in the name of law enforcement without a reasonable and traceable point that they have directly or indirectly been part of a criminal activity.”

The lawmakers, after deliberation, approved the following resolutions:

  1. Call on the Nigerian Police, Enugu State Command, the EFCC Enugu Zonal Office, and all other security agencies in the state to immediately desist from the random and indiscriminate searching of individuals’ phones.
  2. Direct the Enugu State Commissioner of Police to educate and sensitize his officers on the need to respect citizens’ right to privacy.
  3. Call on civil society organizations, human rights groups, and the Enugu State Executive Council to establish mechanisms that support victims of privacy violations and ensure that citizens’ rights are protected.

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2027: Adesina Denies Reports Of Presidential Ambition

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Dailygazettenig
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The President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Akinwunmi Adesina, has refuted claims linking him to Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.

Recent reports suggested that Adesina had hinted at his interest in running for the presidency during a recent interview.

However, the AfDB president has dismissed these claims, stating that his words were taken out of context.

In a post on his X handle on Friday, Adesina clarified that the media misinterpreted his remarks.

“A segment of my recent interview on @ARISEtv has been both misinterpreted and misrepresented in several Nigerian media outlets. What I said was, ‘I will be available to serve in any capacity, globally, in Africa, anywhere, including my own country.’

“A listen to the substantive and robust interview, which is available online, will show this to be the case. For clarity and for the record, I did not say that I am running for the office of President of Nigeria,” Adesina stated.

This is not the first time Adesina has distanced himself from speculation about Nigeria’s presidency.

As his tenure at the AfDB approaches its conclusion in May 2025, similar rumors have surfaced once again.

Before the 2023 elections, there was widespread speculation about his candidacy, prompting him to issue a statement denying any interest.

“While I am deeply honoured, humbled and grateful for all the incredible goodwill, kindness, and confidence, my current responsibilities at this time do not allow me to accept to be considered,” he said at the time.

“I remain fully engaged and committed to the mission that Nigeria, Africa, and all the non-African shareholders of the African Development Bank have given me for Africa’s development.

“I remain fully focused on the mission of supporting the accelerated development and economic integration of Africa.”

Adesina, who served as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture under President Goodluck Jonathan, was first elected as AfDB president in 2015 and secured reelection in 2020.

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Families Of Enugu Coal Miners Killed In 1949 Demand Justice In Court

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Seventy-six years after the brutal killing of 21 coal miners in Enugu by their British employers, families of the deceased have taken legal action, seeking justice and compensation for the atrocities committed against them.

The suit, filed at the Enugu State High Court, names the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the British Government, the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, and the Head of the Commonwealth as respondents.

The 21 unarmed coal miners were killed in 1949 at the Iva Valley Coal Mine after British Superintendent of Police F.S. Philip allegedly ordered officers—both British and Nigerian—to open fire on them for protesting poor working conditions.

Mazi Greg Nwachukwu Onoh, acting on behalf of the families and dependents of the slain miners, instituted the case based on the court’s approval under the Fundamental Rights Enforcement Procedure Rules 2009.

The plaintiff argued that the colonial police’s use of deadly force against peaceful, unarmed miners was a severe violation of their right to life under both domestic and international laws in place at the time.

He further described the killings as “an egregious act of state-sanctioned murder, extrajudicial killing, and a flagrant abuse of human rights.”

According to him, the massacre was not only unlawful but also a disproportionate response to a legitimate industrial action.

He maintained that the use of state force to silence labour grievances constituted torture and inhuman treatment, which was prohibited by British colonial laws at the time.

The families, in suit No. E/909/2024 before Justice O.O. Onovo, are demanding:

  • A formal acknowledgment of liability by the respondents for the unlawful execution of the 21 coal miners.
  • An official apology from the British Government for the extrajudicial killings.
  • Comprehensive compensation for the families and dependents of the deceased miners.
  • A judicial declaration that the massacre was a gross violation of the right to life and an abuse of state power.
  • A binding order compelling the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to engage diplomatically with the British Government to secure justice, in line with the Magna Carta 1215 and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948).

When the case came up in court on Thursday, it was observed that none of the respondents had filed a response.

Consequently, the Counsel to the Federal Government requested more time to prepare their defense.

Justice Onovo adjourned the matter to April 15, 2025, for a definitive hearing.

Speaking to reporters, Counsel to the Applicants, Professor Yemi Akinseye-George (SAN), described the case as a landmark legal battle aimed at holding both the British Government and Nigerian authorities accountable for their failure to deliver justice for one of the worst massacres in colonial African history.

“The outcome will be a defining precedent in post-colonial justice, state liability for extrajudicial killings, and the enforcement of fundamental human rights violations,” he said.

When asked why it had taken so long for the families to seek justice, he noted that they may not have been properly advised or ready to pursue legal action earlier.

“It is not about how long but how well. When it comes to the right to life, there is no prescription time.

“Unfortunately, maybe the families were not well advised or aware of their rights, and I also understand that efforts were made at a point, but they were abandoned along the line. But now, some persuasive advocates have decided that it is about time to remedy this injustice.

“I think the time has come for the British and Federal Governments of Nigeria and all who are on the side of humanity to respond to the cry for remediation of the families and relations of these deceased miners. That is why we are in court,” he said.

He emphasized the sacredness of human life, insisting that no authority has the right to take it without due process of law.

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‘Go To Hell’ – Ribadu Slams Canadian Embassy For Denying Visas To CDS Musa, Others

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Dailygazettenig
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Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has strongly criticized the Canadian Embassy for denying visas to Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and several top military officers.

Ribadu’s remarks followed Musa’s revelation at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja on Thursday.

Musa disclosed that he and his team had been invited to Canada for an event honoring war veterans, but half of the delegation was denied visas.

Expressing his disappointment, Musa described the situation as a lesson for Nigeria to assert itself and not be taken for granted.

“Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada. There’s an event to honour our veterans, those who were injured during battles, and we were meant to be there.

“We were invited with our team. Half has gone, and half has been denied. It’s very disappointing,” he said.

In response, Ribadu praised Musa for openly addressing the issue and did not hold back in his criticism of Canada’s decision.

“Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” Ribadu said.

Despite the setback, he emphasized that Nigeria remains “peaceful and strong” and must continue working hard to navigate such diplomatic challenges.

The incident has also drawn attention to the significance of Nigeria’s military leadership, with Ribadu commending Musa for his “purposeful leadership” in tackling insecurity across the country.

He highlighted the ongoing collaboration among security agencies in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, reinforcing the need for unity and resilience in the face of external obstacles.

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Eight-Year-Old Nigerian Becomes One Of The World’s Youngest Authors

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Dailygazettenig
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The literary world is celebrating the emergence of eight-year-old Kamsiyochukwu Anusi, who has made history as Nigeria’s second youngest author with the release of his book, Adventures Round the Shining Egg.

This remarkable achievement also places him as Africa’s third youngest author and ranks him among the world’s six youngest published writers.

A Basic Four pupil at Mary Pearl Ville Academy in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Kamsiyochukwu’s passion for storytelling and writing has led to this groundbreaking milestone.

Originally from Imo State, he lives with his family in Port Harcourt, where he finds inspiration for his imaginative tales.

In an exclusive interview, Kamsiyochukwu shared insights into his journey, interests, and sources of motivation.

He expressed gratitude for the support of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chukwuma Anusi, and his siblings, Delight and Excel.

Describing his daily routine, he said, “I go to school, do my homework, teach my sister, and then write stories.”

Kamsiyochukwu writes at home, often drawing inspiration from his environment.

His preferred workspace is the family’s dining table, where he can focus without distractions.

He credited his love for books as the driving force behind his writing journey.

“I read a lot of storybooks, and one day I felt like I should write my own story. I tried it, and that was how the whole thing started,” he explained.

His book, Adventures Round the Shining Egg, showcases his creativity, blending reality, fantasy, miracles, and magic while promoting positive values and morals.

Dedicated to his parents for their unwavering support and to God Almighty for guidance, Kamsiyochukwu also acknowledged his pastor, Dr. Chibueze Amadi, for instilling in him lessons on respect, obedience, and perseverance.

Speaking about his accomplishment, Joy Esuku, Chairperson of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Rivers State Branch, expressed her excitement.

“I feel excited; that is why I have been committed since I got to know of his writing,” she said.

She further revealed that ANA plans to engage Kamsiyochukwu in writing programs for children and teenagers, nurturing his talent and preparing him for formal membership in the Association.

The book’s editor and literary critic, Uduma Kalu, recalled how he was introduced to Kamsiyochukwu’s work and immediately recognized his raw talent.

“I went through it. I told her, well, there is something here, we can work on it, and we started exchanging ideas,” he said.

He emphasized that Kamsiyochukwu’s accomplishment is more than just a one-time feat but a historic literary milestone that deserves recognition and encouragement.

Kingsley Egbulonu, Deputy Director and Head of the National Library of Nigeria, Port Harcourt, also praised the young author’s talent.

“As part of our Corporate Social Responsibility, the National Library always identifies with authors and gifted children,” he stated.

He announced that the National Library will provide space for the book launch and offer necessary support to promote Kamsiyochukwu’s work.

Additionally, the library will issue both E-ISBN and ISBN numbers for the book’s publication.

Kamsiyochukwu’s father, Chukwuma Anusi, expressed his pride and amazement at his son’s success.

“Well, I know he can write like normal writing, but this professional writing, honestly, it just came by surprise,” he admitted.

He attributed his son’s accomplishment to his deep passion for storytelling and his habit of reading storybooks, which expanded his imagination.

Encouraging other parents, he advised, “Parents should always keep tabs on their children’s academic development and career interests.”

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Ekiti Court Dismisses Another Defamation Suit Against Farotimi

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Dailygazettenig
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The Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, has struck out the defamation case filed against lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Aare Afe Babalola.

Farotimi was arrested on December 3, 2024, in Lagos by operatives of the Ekiti State Police Command following allegations that he defamed Babalola.

The case stemmed from a 14-count charge accusing Farotimi of defaming the renowned lawyer and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), in his book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System.

In the book, Farotimi alleged that Babalola influenced the Supreme Court to secure a fraudulent judgment in favor of his clients.

During the hearing, the prosecution, led by Mr. Martins A. Akala, sought the court’s permission to withdraw the charges against Farotimi, stating that the directive to do so came from police authorities.

The defence team, led by Adejare Kembi, did not oppose the prosecution’s request to discontinue the case.

After hearing from both sides, Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun ruled in favor of the prosecution’s application and subsequently struck out the case.

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Three Enugu Labour Party Rep Members, Others Defect To APC

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Dailygazettenig
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Three members of the House of Representatives elected under the platform of the Labour Party in Enugu state, along with other key politicians, have officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), DAILY GAZETTE reports.

The announcement was made by the Enugu State Chairman of the APC, Barr. Ugochukwu Agballah, after his inauguration as a member of the South East Development Commission.

He disclosed this during a meeting of the APC Progressive Governors’ Forum, the National Working Committee, and state chairmen of the party.

The meeting, attended by prominent APC leaders such as Chief Uche Nnaji and Chief Emma Eneukwu, provided a platform to introduce the defecting members.

According to Agballah, the lawmakers who have declared their intention to join the APC include; Hon. Sunday Umeha who represents Udi/Ezeagu Federal Constituency, Hon. Chima Atu, Representing Enugu North/South Federal Constituency and Hon. Chidi Obetta Representing Nsukka/Igboeze-South Federal Constituency.

Others are Hon. Oguerinwa Amadi, Former PDP House of Rep member and LP Senatorial Candidate for Enugu West Zone in the 2023 elections, as well as Barr. Emeka Mamah who served as Former Enugu State Commissioner and State Campaign Coordinator for Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election.

The defectors cited the need for a stronger political platform that aligns with their vision for Enugu State and the Southeast region.

APC leaders welcomed the new members, emphasizing that the party remains committed to providing a progressive platform for development and governance in the Southeast.

Minister of Science, Innovation, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, along with Chief Emma Eneukwu, assured them of full integration into the party structure and encouraged them to work towards strengthening the APC’s presence in Enugu State.

This defection comes amid ongoing internal wranglings within the Labour Party.

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Enugu Governor, Mbah Approves Gratuity Payment For Enugu Retirees

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Dailygazettenig
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Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has approved the payment of gratuities to retirees in the state, marking a significant step in addressing outstanding entitlements.

This development was announced in a public service statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia.

According to the statement, a verification exercise will precede the payments, starting on Monday, 24th February 2025.

The announcement reads:

“The Enugu State Government is pleased to inform the general public, particularly retirees and next of kin of deceased retirees, that the Verification Exercise for Gratuity and related entitlements will commence on Monday, 24th February 2025. This exercise is specifically for individuals who are due for gratuity payments and related entitlements.

“This announcement follows the successful completion of the verification exercises for active workers and pensioners, conducted earlier. The government appreciates the cooperation of all stakeholders during the exercise and looks forward to the same level of participation and compliance during the gratuity verification.

“The verification exercise is designed to:

  1. Update and validate the records of retirees and next of kin.
  2. Ensure that only legitimate beneficiaries receive their gratuity and related payments.
  3. Eliminate fraud, discrepancies, and delays in the payment process.
  4. Create a reliable and accurate database for future reference.”

Who Should Participate?

  • Retirees who have not yet received their gratuity payments.
  • Next of kin of deceased retirees eligible for gratuity or related entitlements.

Required Documents for Verification:

To facilitate the verification process, participants must present the following documents:

  1. Notice of Retirement
  2. Pension Form and Pension Authority
  3. Letter of First Appointment
  4. Last Promotion Letter
  5. Bank Verification Number (BVN)
  6. National Identification Number (NIN)
  7. Two Recent Passport Photographs
  8. Payslip or Statement of Account covering at least five years
  9. Death Certificate (for Next of Kin)
  10. Letter of Administration/Affidavit
  11. Any Other Relevant Documents

Verification Schedule

The verification will be conducted in phases to ensure an efficient and organized process:

  • Phase 1: 24th February – 10th March 2025 – Retirees from specific ministries and local government areas.
  • Phase 2: 11th – 25th March 2025 – Next of kin of deceased retirees.
  • Phase 3: 26th March – 2nd April 2025 – Mop-up exercise for those who missed earlier phases.
  • Phase 4: 3rd – 17th April 2025 – Collation and compilation of beneficiaries and submission of reports.

Participants will be informed of their specific dates and venues via SMS, radio announcements, and posters.

Instructions for Pensioners Abroad or Hospitalized

Retirees unable to attend in person due to being abroad or hospitalized can authorize a representative to submit their documents.

  • A signed affidavit or letter of consent must be provided, including the retiree’s full name, pension identification number, and the representative’s name.
  • The authorized representative must submit the required documents to the verification team.
  • Additionally, scanned copies of all necessary documents should be emailed to verifygratuity@gmail.com with the subject line containing the retiree’s full name and pension identification number.
  • Once received, the documents will be processed remotely, and the retiree will be notified upon completion.

Verification Venues

The main venue for the exercise will be:

Enugu State College of Education (Technical)
Time: 8:00 AM daily

Additional venues for participants in remote areas will be announced in due course.

Important Notes

  • Participants must bring original documents alongside photocopies for submission.
  • Ensure bank account details are accurate and up-to-date.
  • Arrive early and follow all instructions from verification officers.
  • Strict adherence to assigned dates and venues is required for a smooth process.

Grievance Redress Mechanism

For inquiries or complaints, contact:

The Enugu State Government remains committed to ensuring transparency and efficiency in this exercise, prioritizing the welfare of retirees and their families. Cooperation from all stakeholders is crucial to the success of this initiative.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to the progress of Enugu State.

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Kano Uncovers Illegal Private Accounts Used To Divert Public Funds

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Dailygazettenig
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The Kano Internal Revenue Service (KIRS) has discovered multiple private accounts fraudulently used to siphon public funds, leading to the loss of billions of naira.

The Executive Chairman of KIRS, Dr. Zaid Abubakar, revealed this during the 2024 Yearly Performance Review and Strategic Planning for 2025 held yesterday.

He highlighted how revenue misappropriation and under-reported income by previous managers had weakened the state’s ability to compete with its peers in internally generated revenue (IGR).

While Dr. Abubakar did not disclose the exact amount of missing funds or the identities of those responsible, he stressed that these illegal practices had severely impacted Kano’s financial strength.

To address the issue, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has approved a review of the state’s tax laws, with the amendments expected to take effect before the end of the first quarter of 2025.

Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser on Revenue, Prof. Ibrahim Barde, urged the revenue agency to tackle the challenges hindering effective tax collection and ensure a more transparent and accountable system.

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