Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State on Wednesday inaugurated an 11-member committee to investigate the alleged sale of the Nigerian Meat and Allied Products Abattoir by the administration of former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.
The multi-billion naira facility, located at the Chalawa Industrial Area and built during the tenure of Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, was designed to provide multiple services capable of generating revenue and creating jobs.
It was, however, reportedly auctioned off under Ganduje’s administration.
Speaking at the inauguration of the committee on behalf of the governor, Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ibrahim, said the probe was necessary to hold the immediate past administration accountable and to safeguard public assets allegedly sold off for personal gain.
According to him, the committee, chaired by the former head of the Kano State Anti-Corruption and Public Complaints Commission, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin-Gado, has been mandated to recover any public assets and recommend punitive measures against those found culpable.
“The committee is to probe the circumstances surrounding the sale of the land and equipment in the NIMAP Abattoir. You are to review all documents, agreements and approvals, if any, relating to the transaction and assess compliance with relevant laws and due process,” the SSG stated.
He added that the committee would also determine the roles of individuals, organisations, or government agencies involved, recover any public funds or assets lost, verify the legality of the transactions, and recommend legal, administrative, or disciplinary action where necessary.
“The committee is also expected to suggest measures to prevent a recurrence, and propose steps toward establishing a modern meat processing plant that meets international standards,” he said.
In his response, the chairman of the committee, Rimin-Gado, assured the government of a thorough and impartial investigation.
“We will conduct this assignment diligently and without fear or favour. The call to service will be handled with utmost care,” he pledged.
Other members of the committee include the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Adamu Kibiya; Maganin Garin Kano, Alhaji Nasiru Inuwa Wada; the Special Adviser on Constitutional Matters, Barrister Aminu Hussain; and Abdulkadir Shehu from the Office of the Head of Civil Service, who will serve as secretary.
The committee was given three weeks to submit its report to the government.
