Amanze Chinonye
Katsina State’s Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (KTPCACC) has launched investigations into alleged financial misconduct totaling N188.6 million, implicating 15 councillors, four secondary school principals, and several Community Development Officers (CDOs).
The probe spans multiple sectors, including local government programs, education, and the state Department of Banking and Finance.
The Commission’s Secretary, Dr. Jamilu Abdulsalam, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Friday in Katsina. He emphasized that the investigations are being conducted with utmost seriousness and professionalism.
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According to Abdulsalam, preliminary findings show that councillors and CDOs allegedly extorted more than N46 million during the distribution of subsidized fertilizers under the Community Development Programme (CDP). “Some individuals have admitted their roles and even begun making partial refunds, while others remain under investigation,” he said.
The Commission is pursuing all lawful measures to ensure the recovery of misappropriated funds and accountability of the implicated officials. This move underscores the government’s effort to ensure that community development resources are not siphoned off at the local level.
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Mismanagement in Education
The KTPCACC is also examining four secondary school principals following reports from the State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education. The principals are accused of mismanaging over N6.6 million in school funds. One principal is additionally alleged to have sold school property, a violation of public trust.
“These cases highlight the need for stringent oversight in the education sector to ensure that public funds meant for learning and infrastructure benefit the students,” Abdulsalam stated.
Alleged Misappropriation in State Department
In a separate probe, the Commission is investigating the Katsina State Department of Banking and Finance for the alleged misappropriation of N104.3 million. Out of N136.1 million reported, N31.8 million was verified as properly expended. Efforts have so far led to the recovery of over N70 million, with the balance still under recovery.
Dr. Abdulsalam emphasized that these investigations are not just about recovering funds, but also about protecting public resources and promoting accountability across all levels of government. “By addressing these alleged abuses, the government aims to restore public trust and ensure that funds allocated for development reach their intended beneficiaries,” he said.
He urged residents to report any incidents of corruption, financial misconduct, or abuse of office to the Commission. Abdulsalam reassured the public that KTPCACC remains committed to transparency, integrity, and the proper utilization of public funds.
The Katsina State government’s move reflects a growing determination among Nigerian states to clamp down on corruption at local and state levels, signaling to public officials that financial mismanagement will not be tolerated.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
