Kano State Government on Monday denied the allegation of N6.5 billion diversion by the Director General, Protocol Directorate of Kano State Government House, Abdullahi Rogo.
A statement by the Governor’s spokesman, Sanusi Bature DawakinTofa, said the allegation was nothing more than a work of fiction, carefully crafted by political opponents.
The statement said the allegation was part of the opposition members’ blackmail and propaganda in their desperation to remain relevant ahead of the 2027 elections.
“One of the ill-intended narratives, most likely sponsored, was a publication on Daily Nigerian, a Kano-based online news platform, on August 22nd, 2025, which particularly drew government attention to the allegation of withdrawal and diversion of ₦6.5 billion from the state treasury.
“First, government makes bold to say every cash outflow into Ministries, Departments, and Agencies is properly budgeted with clear codes well spelt out in the fiscal policy of the state. Hence, no individual in government MDAs handles public funds without proper designated purpose.
“The Directorate of Protocol, Kano State Government, handles critical responsibilities in Government House and key operations in the Office of the Chief Executive of the state.
“These responsibilities cover but are not limited to logistics, accommodation, welfare, and management of the Governor’s itineraries within and outside the country.
“The Directorate of Protocol is equally entrusted to provide required logistics to VIPs and VVIPs, which include the Presidency, Ministers, foreign aides, and other diplomatic visitors on official state visits to the Governor.
“The large number of personalities captured in this category also includes ordinary citizens that mostly attract the special attention of the Governor.
“Expectedly, over 95 per cent of the responsibility of the Directorate of Protocol involves large volumes of financial transactions and more often than not, settles liabilities incurred on the state at the instance of His Excellency.
“While the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf will remain focused on governance and maintain its position on financial prudence, accountability, transparency, and zero tolerance for corruption, the government will not sacrifice the integrity of its aides to deliberate acts of political blackmail being orchestrated by unpatriotic elements of society.
“The government is also not in doubt of the credibility of the Director General, Directorate of Protocol, Government House, Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Rogo,” the statement reads.
