The Kano State Government has recently made a startling discovery, revealing that 3,234 individuals have been illicitly earning salaries within the state’s public service.
Uncovering a concerning trend, the government has also detected the presence of ineligible workers among those recruited during the tenure of former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, including a 13-year-old girl, students from primary and secondary schools, and even members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
Dr. Abdullahi Bichi, the Secretary to the State Government, brought these findings to light during a press conference where he shared details from the report compiled by the committee appointed by the state government to investigate this illegal recruitment. In response to the alarming revelations, Governor Abba Yusuf acted swiftly, directing the immediate suspension of salaries for over 10,000 public servants who were recruited towards the end of the former governor’s administration.
Dr. Bichi emphasized that the committee’s investigations uncovered serious shortcomings in the employment process. Despite the rush to hire, the previous administration failed to adequately consider the financial implications of the 2023 budget. Additionally, it was discovered that a significant number of those recruited bypassed the mandatory screening exercise, while others secured their positions using fraudulent certificates.
In light of these findings, the government has endorsed recommendations aimed at rectifying the situation. Among these measures is the intention to offer suitable employment opportunities to 9,332 individuals possessing the requisite qualifications. Moreover, appropriate sanctions will be implemented, particularly targeting civil servants complicit in these illegal practices, adhering strictly to civil service regulations.
Dr. Bichi further revealed that those who will face disciplinary actions include the mother of the 13-year-old girl. During the committee’s inquiry, she confessed to receiving salaries through her mother’s account while being employed within the public service.
