The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano has demanded a thorough investigation into the alleged diversion of rice donated by the Federal Government, accusing officials from the state’s New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP)-led administration of redirecting these supplies for personal gain.
Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, APC’s state chairman, voiced his concerns, citing repeated incidents where palliatives meant for the public were reportedly siphoned off by government insiders. Abbas warned that failure to act could be interpreted as implicit approval of such corrupt practices.
One notable example he mentioned involved the discovery of numerous bags of rice, clearly marked as part of the “Federal Government Food Security Programme,” at a private school owned by Shehu Sagagi, the Chief of Staff. In addition, Abbas highlighted the arrest of Tasiu Al’amin-Roba, who allegedly diverted palliatives on behalf of the Secretary to the State Government.
Abbas went further, accusing the state government of rebranding Federal Government relief items with the governor’s image and NNPP logos before distributing them to party loyalists. He also criticized the state’s leadership for taking credit for federal initiatives, such as distributing fertilizers and agricultural inputs.
In response, Shehu Sagagi denied the allegations, claiming the rice found at his school was either purchased with his funds or donated by well-wishers. He emphasized his long-standing commitment to feeding children at his school, which predated his current government role, and insisted he never misused state palliatives for personal benefit. Sagagi also expressed his willingness to cooperate with any investigation to clear his name and uphold his integrity.
