Ex-Kano deputy gov challenges LG funds diversion claim

The immediate past deputy governor of Kano State and governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress for the 2027 election, Aminu Gwarzo, has challenged the Kano State Government to provide evidence supporting allegations that he received funds from local government councils through his son, Mujahid Abdussalam.

Gwarzo’s challenge followed allegations reportedly made by the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Kano, Bature Dawakin-Tofa, who accused the former deputy governor of benefiting from monthly deductions from local government allocations through his son.

In a statement issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Ibrahim Shuaibu, the NDC governorship candidate described the allegations as false, baseless and an attempt to tarnish his reputation.

Gwarzo maintained that those making the allegations should substantiate their claims with verifiable evidence rather than relying on media accusations.

“The allegations are mere figments of the accuser’s imagination and lack any factual basis.

“We categorically challenge those behind the allegations to provide credible, verifiable and documentary evidence to support these claims. Mere accusations, no matter how frequently repeated, do not amount to proof,” the statement said.

The former deputy governor said he had throughout his public service career conducted himself in accordance with the principles of transparency, accountability and the rule of law.

According to him, attempts to drag his name into controversy would not distract him from his political aspirations and commitment to public service.

“Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo has served Kano State with integrity and dedication. His record in public office is open for scrutiny, and he remains confident that the truth will prevail over falsehood.

“He has always upheld the principles of accountability and responsible leadership. Those seeking to damage his reputation through unsubstantiated allegations should be prepared to present evidence before the public,” the statement said.

Gwarzo urged residents of Kano State to disregard what he described as politically motivated allegations designed to mislead the public.

Recall that Mujahid, son of the former deputy governor, had on Wednesday, 17th June 2027, petitioned the Kano State police command over alleged defamatory statements made against him by the Dawakin-Tofa.

The petition, dated June 17, 2026, was filed through the law firm of A.A. Shirawa, Nasirudeen & Partners and signed by Nazifi Yusuf Gorondutse.

According to the petition, Dawakin-Tofa allegedly made remarks during a political gathering in Kano on June 13, 2026, accusing Mujahid of being involved in the collection of a gratuity fund popularly referred to as “Awwalaja” from the 44 local government chairmen in the state.

The petition further alleged that Dawakin-Tofa claimed the funds were handed over to Mujahid’s father, Gwarzo, and that the money was subsequently used to acquire plots of land and farmland.

Mujahid’s legal representatives described the allegations as false, malicious, and damaging to their client’s reputation.

They noted that the statements were widely circulated through a viral video on social media, resulting in what they termed significant reputational harm.

The lawyers, therefore, urged the police to investigate the matter and take appropriate legal action, alleging criminal defamation and character assassination.

When contacted, Dawakin-Tofa said the former deputy governor was asked by the state House of Assembly to defend himself, but could not do so up to this time.

“He has been subjected to a probe, but he could not answer, and it was out of the magnanimity of the governor that he let the issue go.”

On the call by Gwarzo to Yusuf to provide concrete evidence to support the allegations, Dawakin-Tofa said the state government could provide proof of the allegations.

“Yes, we can provide proof of the allegations to enable him to answer at a given time,” he added.

The controversy comes against the backdrop of a viral video circulating on social media in which Dawakin-Tofa allegedly accused the former deputy governor of receiving N2m monthly from each of the state’s 44 local government councils through his son.

In the video, the governor’s media aide reportedly alleged that the funds were diverted during the period Gwarzo served as the state commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs.

The allegations have since generated debate within Kano’s political circles, with supporters of both camps trading accusations over the claims.

The development is the latest twist in the growing political rivalry between key actors in Kano State ahead of the 2027 general elections.