Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has directed a full-scale investigation into the alleged deduction of N1.5 billion from workers’ salaries in Kano State, vowing that those found responsible will face sanctions.
He gave the directive on Friday while addressing workers at the International Workers’ Day celebration held at the Sani Abacha Stadium.
The Governor said the probe would focus on claims involving a former Head of Service, Abdullahi Musa, stressing that the allegations would be thoroughly examined.
“Following the alleged deduction of N1.5 billion from workers’ salaries by the former Head of Service, I hereby order an investigation into the allegation,” Yusuf said.
He assured civil servants that any individual found culpable would be held accountable, adding that recovered funds would be refunded to affected workers.
“This government is for you and will work for you. What it needs from you is your support and commitment,” he added.
Governor Yusuf also used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, pledging to clear outstanding gratuities and death benefits owed to retirees.
He disclosed that N32 billion had already been paid out of the N48 billion liabilities inherited by his government, with the remaining N16 billion expected to be settled before the end of his tenure in 2027.
Earlier, the Kano State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Kabir Inuwa, commended the government for consistent salary payments and improved attention to retirees’ benefits.
However, he called for urgent action to address salary disparities between state and local government workers.
Inuwa also urged the government to ensure a transparent investigation into the alleged deductions and to recover the funds if the claims are substantiated.
The development comes amid growing calls for transparency and accountability in the management of workers’ welfare in Kano State.
