Writing by Khadijah Aliyu; Editing by Basirat Memudu
The Kano State House of Assembly-KNHA has initiated impeachment proceedings against the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Abdulsalam, following allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and breach of public trust.
The move comes after a petition submitted to the House by the Executive, urging the legislature to act against the Deputy Governor over alleged irregularities during his tenure as Commissioner for Local Government Affairs between 2023 and 2024.
Reading the petition, Majority Leader Lawan Hussaini Dala stated that the impeachment notice complies with Section 188 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended).
According to him, the notice alleges that Abdulsalam engaged in activities amounting to impeachable offenses while overseeing the state’s 44 local government areas.
He said, the petition allegations include, breach of Public Trust, Diversion of Funds and Misuse of Official Capacity, abuse of office and gross misconduct.
“Abdulsalam is accused of diverting funds meant for local government administrations for personal benefit. Between June 2023 and January 2024, he allegedly received kickbacks totaling ₦462 million over seven months, From February 2024 to July 2024, he reportedly received ₦726 million from local government councils under the guise of executing special assignments”.
Dala noted that, Abdulsalam is further alleged to have facilitated the improper release of ₦440 million to North Med Pharmaceutical Limited, violating public procurement laws and state fiscal regulations.
“These actions are said to constitute gross misconduct under Section 188(2) of the Constitution, representing serious violations of constitutional norms and ethical standards for public office holders”.
Dala explained that, based on the evidence presented, Abdulsalam should be impeached and removed from office in accordance with constitutional procedures.
Radio Nigeria reports that, the Deputy Governor was given two weeks to respond to the allegations contained in the petition.
