Former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, is facing a fresh probe over the alleged sale of the Kano State Multi-Million Naira Abattoir, also known as the Nigerian Meat and Allied Products (NIMAP) facility.
An 11-man panel has been inaugurated by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration to investigate the alleged disposal of the abattoir by Ganduje’s government.
The multi-billion naira facility, located at Chalawa Industrial Area, was originally constructed by the administration of former governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to provide multiple services aimed at generating revenue and creating jobs for Kano residents.
State vows to protect public assets
Speaking during the inauguration on Wednesday at the Cabinet Office, Secretary to the State Government, Umar Faruq Ibrahim, said the investigation is necessary to ensure accountability.
The SSG, who inaugurated the committee on behalf of Governor Yusuf, insisted that the current government has a duty to protect the state’s critical infrastructure from being auctioned off for selfish gains.
He disclosed that the panel, chaired by former Chairman of the Kano State Anti-Corruption Agency, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin-Gado, has been directed to recover public assets and recommend sanctions against anyone found culpable.
“The committee is mandated to probe the circumstances surrounding the sale of the land and equipment in the Nigerian Meat and Allied Products (NIMAP) Abattoir.
“You are to review all documents, agreements and approval if any related to the transaction, and assess the level of compliance with relevant laws and due process,” Ibrahim stated.
According to him, the committee must also “determine the roles and culpability of individuals, organizations, or government agencies involved in the despicable act, and recover any public funds, assets, or equipment lost in the process.”
Panel promises fair and diligent work
The SSG further tasked the committee to recommend legal, administrative, or disciplinary measures against those found guilty, verify the legality of the transactions, and propose steps to establish a modern meat processing plant that meets international standards.
Chairman of the Committee, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin-Gado, commended the government for the confidence reposed in the members and assured that the probe will be conducted with integrity.
He pledged that the exercise would be handled diligently without “fear or favor or affection,” stressing the team’s determination to serve the public interest.
The committee has three weeks to submit its findings.
