JUST IN: Kano Assembly moves to impeach Deputy Governor Abdussalam Gwarzo

The Kano State House of Assembly has commenced impeachment proceedings against Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo over allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and breach of public trust.

The impeachment notice was presented during plenary by Majority Leader Lawan Hussaini Dala, who said the action follows Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

Dala told lawmakers that the allegations relate to Abdussalam’s tenure as Commissioner for Local Government between 2023 and 2024 and his current role as deputy governor.

The deputy governor is accused of diverting funds meant for the administration of the state’s 44 local government councils, receiving kickbacks, and facilitating improper payments.

Between June 2023 and January 2024, Abdussalam allegedly received N1.5 million monthly from each council, totaling N462 million over seven months.

From February to July 2024, he reportedly received additional payments of N3.255 million per council, totaling about N726 million.

The notice also accuses Abdussalam of abuse of office, alleging he used his position as commissioner to facilitate payments of N10 million from each council to NovoMed Pharmaceuticals Limited, totaling N440 million, in violation of procurement and fiscal management laws. Dala said these actions constitute gross misconduct under Section 188(2) of the Constitution.

The impeachment notice was endorsed by 38 lawmakers, meeting the constitutional requirement to initiate the process, and the Speaker acknowledged receipt of the document.

The House is expected to serve the notice on the deputy governor and may request the Chief Judge of Kano State to constitute a panel to investigate the claims if the motion secures the required legislative support.

As of the time of reporting, Abdussalam had not publicly responded to the allegations.