Kano Anti-Corruption Agency Seals N1bn Warehouse of Diverted Rice

The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Agency has sealed a warehouse containing rice worth over N1 billion, which was allegedly diverted from palliative supplies intended for public distribution. The operation took place on Tuesday along Ring Road in the Nasarawa Local Government Area, led by Executive Chairman Muhuyi Rimin-Gado.

The seized rice bags, marked with President Bola Tinubu’s image and the inscription “Ramadan Kareem,” were reportedly designated for distribution during last year’s Ramadan. However, investigations revealed that the rice was being re-bagged under different brands for sale in local markets.

Rimin-Gado condemned the actions as a "blatant display of corruption," emphasizing the detrimental impact on the public during a time of hardship. “This is a clear form of corruption because these are commodities meant for the public,” he stated. “It is appalling that someone would have the audacity to re-bag and sell them.”

During the operation, the agency also recovered a machine used for repackaging the rice and arrested one suspect linked to the diversion. Rimin-Gado confirmed that the agency was equipped with a search warrant, arrest warrant, and court order, reinforcing their commitment to recovering stolen public resources.

He assured the public of a thorough investigation to identify all individuals involved in the illegal activity and emphasized that legal procedures would be strictly followed. “Our commitment is to uncover everyone behind this act and prevent a recurrence,” he added, noting that one suspect is currently in custody.