KANO: The Kano State House of Assembly on Thursday commenced impeachment proceedings against the Deputy Governor of the state, Aminu Abdulsalam.
The move followed a petition submitted by the executive arm of government urging the House to take action against Abdulsalam over alleged irregularities during his tenure as Commissioner for Local Government Affairs between 2023 and 2024.
Reading the petition, Majority Leader, Lawan Hussaini (APC–Dala), said the notice was issued in compliance with Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
Hussaini explained that the allegations relate to Abdulsalam’s activities while overseeing the state’s 44 local government areas.
According to the petition, the deputy governor allegedly breached public trust by diverting funds meant for local government administrations for personal gain, reportedly receiving kickbacks amounting to ₦462 million between June 2023 and January 2024.
It further alleged that between February and July 2024, Abdulsalam received ₦726 million from local government councils under the guise of executing special assignments.
The petition also accused him of abusing his office by facilitating the improper release of ₦440 million to North Med Pharmaceutical Limited in violation of public procurement laws and state fiscal regulations.
“These actions are said to constitute gross misconduct under Section 188(2) of the Constitution, representing serious breaches of constitutional norms and ethical standards for public office holders.
“Based on the evidence presented, Abdulsalam should be impeached and removed from office in accordance with constitutional procedures,” Hussaini said.
The deputy governor has been given two weeks to respond to the allegations contained in the petition.
The impeachment notice was reportedly signed by 38 members of the 40-member House.
