A leaked document has surfaced alleging that the Kano State Government has mandated all 44 local government areas (LGAs) in the state to contribute a combined sum of ₦670 million toward vehicle procurement and restoration projects for the Kano Emirate Council.
According to the report, each LGA is to contribute ₦15,227,272.72, which will be deducted directly from the State/Local Government Joint Account. The funds are reportedly earmarked for the purchase of four new vehicles and repairs of two vintage ones used by the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi.
Memo from Ministry of Local Government Confirms Funding Directive
The directive was contained in a memo dated March 25, 2025, issued by the Kano State Ministry of Local Government. With reference number MLG/INSP/LGD/166T/6, the memo was addressed to all LGA chairmen across the state and signed by Abubakar S. Dabo, Director of Local Government Inspection, on behalf of the Commissioner for Local Government.
The document, titled “Conveyance of Approval for the Release of Funds,” outlines a detailed budget for the refurbishment and procurement of vehicles through Sottom Synergy Resources Ltd, a company reportedly contracted for the task.
Breakdown of Emirate Council Vehicle Funding
According to the memo, the funds will cover:
- Refurbishment of Vintage Vehicles
- 1993 Fleetwood Cadillac Limousine: ₦25 million
- 1998 Daimler D5 420: ₦25 million
- Purchase of New Vehicles
- 2024 Toyota Hilux Pickup: ₦98 million
- 2024 Toyota Hiace Bus: ₦98 million
- 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser VXR (Full Option): ₦268 million
- 2024 Toyota Prado: ₦156 million
The total cost of all vehicle repairs and acquisitions amounts to ₦670 million.
Palace Source Confirms Authenticity
A palace official, speaking on condition of anonymity to The Punch, confirmed the authenticity of the document. “The company has already been contacted, and plans are in motion to bring in the vehicles and begin restoration of the vintage ones,” the source said.
Oversight Measures Included
The memo was also copied to key oversight bodies, including:
- The Auditor General for Local Government Audit, Kano State
- All Zonal Inspectors within the Ministry for Local Government
These offices were instructed to monitor compliance and ensure all procurement procedures adhere to due process.
Public Reaction and Accountability Concerns
The revelation has sparked public debate, with some questioning the prioritization of funds for the Emirate Council amid pressing infrastructural and social challenges in Kano State. Critics argue that allocating ₦670 million for luxury vehicle expenses may be considered excessive, especially when local governments are often underfunded and struggling to meet basic service delivery obligations.
Looking Ahead
As public scrutiny intensifies, it remains to be seen how the Kano State Government and the Emirate Council will respond to growing concerns over transparency, fiscal responsibility, and governance priorities.
