The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited and interrogated Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the former governor of Kano State, over allegations of misappropriating N2.5 billion in pension funds. This investigation adds another layer of scrutiny to the financial dealings of former Kano State officials.
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Background of the Allegations
Sources within the EFCC, although unauthorized to officially comment, have confirmed Kwankwaso’s interrogation. One source revealed, “The commission invited Kwankwaso over the alleged N2.5bn Kano pension funds. We have grilled Kwankwaso over the matter, and he has provided some details to interrogators.”
This development follows a series of investigations into the misuse of pension funds in Kano State. In March 2023, the EFCC’s Abuja Zonal Command handed over documents and 324 recovered houses to Kano State pensioners. These properties were recovered after a Federal High Court in Abuja granted a final forfeiture order.
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The EFCC’s Findings and Actions
The EFCC had previously investigated a petition by the Concerned Kano State Workers and Pensioners regarding the alleged misappropriation of pension funds. Their findings indicated that the Kano State government had entered into an agreement with the Kano State Pension Trust Fund to build housing estates worth N41 billion. The Pension Trust Fund was to contribute N4.1 billion to this project.
However, the pensioners’ contributions were allegedly misused to build houses in three estates—Sheikh Ja’afar Mahmud Adam Bandirawo city, Sheikh Nasiru Kabara (Amana) city, and Sheikh Khalifa Ishaq Rabiu city. It was further alleged that two former governors sold these houses to their cronies and associates, leaving the pension trustees with incomplete and low-budget houses.
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In response, the EFCC successfully obtained a court order to forfeit 324 properties worth N4.1 billion back to the pensioners. This action was lauded by representatives of the Kano State Pension Board, who expressed their gratitude towards the EFCC for aiding in the recovery of their assets.
Political Tensions and Implications
This investigation into Kwankwaso occurs amid significant political tension between the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), led by Kwankwaso, and the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by his successor, Abdullahi Ganduje. Recently, the Kano State Assembly, loyal to the current governor Abba Yusuf (Kwankwaso’s political godson), reversed Ganduje’s 2020 decision to split the Kano emirate into five. Additionally, Yusuf reinstated former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Lamido Sanusi, who was dethroned by Ganduje.
EFCC’s Ongoing Commitment
The EFCC has reiterated its commitment to combating fraud and ensuring justice for pensioners. Assistant Commander of the EFCC, Adeniyi Adebayo, assured that the commission would continue its efforts to eliminate fraudulent practices in Nigeria.
FAQs
Q1: What is the nature of the allegations against Rabiu Kwankwaso?
A1: Kwankwaso is accused of misappropriating N2.5 billion in pension funds during his tenure as governor of Kano State.
Q2: How has the EFCC responded to these allegations?
A2: The EFCC has invited and interrogated Kwankwaso as part of their investigation into the alleged misappropriation. They have also recovered properties worth N4.1 billion for the pensioners.
Q3: What previous actions has the EFCC taken regarding pension fund misappropriation in Kano State?
A3: In March 2023, the EFCC handed over documents for 324 properties recovered from fraudulent activities involving the Kano State Pension Trust Fund.
Q4: How has this investigation affected the political landscape in Kano State?
A4: The investigation has intensified political tensions between Kwankwaso’s NNPP and Ganduje’s APC, especially with recent legislative actions reversing Ganduje’s decisions and reinstating former Emir Lamido Sanusi.
Q5: What assurances has the EFCC given to the public?
A5: The EFCC has assured the public of their ongoing efforts to combat fraud and ensure justice for affected pensioners.
Conclusion
The EFCC’s investigation into Rabiu Kwankwaso underscores the ongoing battle against corruption in Nigeria. As political tensions in Kano State continue to rise, the outcome of this probe could have significant implications for the region’s political and social stability. The EFCC remains committed to ensuring justice and transparency in handling public funds.
Source: Punch
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