Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf’s recent generosity in gifting members of the state House of Assembly with N2.7 billion worth of exotic vehicles has sparked controversy and drawn widespread criticism from various quarters.
According to the Daily Trust, some of the 40 assembly members have already taken delivery of the luxurious sports utility vehicles (SUVs), each valued at a staggering N68 million. The Kano Assembly comprises 25 members from the governor’s New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and 14 from the All Progressives Congress (APC), with one seat still pending a decision.
This lavish gesture comes on the heels of a similar move made by Kebbi State Governor Nasiru Idris, who also gifted state officials and heads of parastatals with expensive vehicles, which was met with condemnation.
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While the rationale behind Governor Yusuf’s gift remains unclear, his Chief of Staff, Shehu Wada Sagagi, defended the action, asserting that the members were entitled to reliable vehicles for their duties.
He further explained that the governor had negotiated with the contractor to spread the payment over time, considering the prevailing economic circumstances.
However, the extravagant expenditure has triggered a barrage of critical reactions on social media platforms and among Kano residents.
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Many have voiced their disappointment, citing the government’s apparent lack of priority amidst the challenging economic realities faced by the populace.
Grassroots Parrot gathered that so many people in the state have diverse reactions to Gov. Abba’s frivolous spending. Samaila Sani, a Kantin Kwari Market businessman, expressed his dismay, stating, “This government has failed to realize its priority.
“Spending such an amount is unnecessary. At a time when people are crying over inadequate potable water supply in the state, the government chose to buy expensive cars for people who are not poor.”
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Echoing similar sentiments, another resident, Aliyu Sulaiman, questioned the necessity of the move, suggesting that the officials should utilize the vehicles left by their predecessors, which he presumed to be in good condition.
The controversy surrounding the extravagant gift highlights the growing discontent among citizens over what they perceive as misplaced government expenditures and underscores the need for greater accountability and transparency in public spending.