Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has suspended the Acting Head of Service, Salisu Mustapha, over alleged salary deductions and the non-payment of some civil servants’ salaries. The suspension takes effect immediately.
The governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Dawakin-Tofa, announced the decision on Thursday, stating that Mustapha has also been directed to step aside from his position as Permanent Secretary, Establishment, under the Office of the Head of Service. This move is to allow for a thorough investigation into the allegations.
“The governor has shown his commitment to transparency and accountability by taking this bold step. The investigation will be conducted without any interference,” Dawakin-Tofa said.
He further emphasized that the administration will not tolerate financial malpractice in any form.
“Any public servant found wanting will be dealt with according to the law,” he added.
New Acting Head of Service Appointed
To ensure the smooth running of government activities, Governor Yusuf has appointed Malam Umar Muhammad Jalo, the Permanent Secretary of REPA, as the new Acting Head of Service. Jalo will serve in this position until the investigation is concluded.
After his appointment, Jalo pledged to uphold integrity in the civil service.
“I am ready to serve diligently and ensure the highest standards of integrity in the civil service,” he said.
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Investigative Committee Set Up
As part of efforts to address the issue, the governor has set up an investigative committee, led by Abdulkadir Abdussalam, to look into the alleged irregularities. The committee was inaugurated on Thursday and has been given seven days to submit its findings.
“We will leave no stone unturned in uncovering the truth. The civil servants deserve to be paid fully and promptly,” Abdussalam stated.
The suspension of Mustapha comes just weeks after he was appointed Acting Head of Service following the medical leave of the substantive Head of Service, Abdullahi Musa, who traveled to India for treatment.
Governor Yusuf has reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance policy for corruption and financial misconduct, warning that any official found guilty of fraud will face severe consequences.
Civil servants and labor unions in Kano have welcomed the decision, expressing hope that the investigation will ensure justice for affected workers.