In a landmark move aimed at promoting justice, fairness, and equity in governance, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has officially flagged off the payment of over ₦16 billion in outstanding gratuities and allowances for former councillors and political office holders across the state’s 44 Local Government Councils. The event took place on Wednesday in Kano.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Governor Yusuf emphasized that the payment was not a political gesture but a moral obligation and legal entitlement owed to those who diligently served the state. “This payment is not a privilege; it is a right. It is our way of appreciating their service and upholding the principles of justice and fairness,” the governor said.
In a statement signed by Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs said according to the governor, the initiative reflects his administration’s core values of dignity, equity, and accountability in public service. “This moment is not merely ceremonial; it symbolizes our administration’s unwavering commitment to upholding dignity, fairness, and accountability in public service,” Yusuf stated.
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The Governor recalled that when the matter of unpaid gratuities was brought before the Kano State Executive Council, the decision to approve the payment was unanimous, irrespective of the political affiliations of the affected councillors. “It was not right to deny people their entitlements after they have served diligently. This administration has resolved to be different,” he declared.
Governor Yusuf lamented the failure of the previous administration under the APC to fulfill these obligations. “Councillors from the 484 wards across the 44 local government councils, who served at different times, were unjustly denied their gratuity. We cannot toe that same line of injustice,” he added.
The payment scheme covers various categories of beneficiaries, including former councillors, vice chairmen, local government chairmen, supervisory councillors, and special advisers. The disbursement will be implemented in three phases:
– Tranche A (2014–2017): ₦1.8 billion to be immediately disbursed to 903 beneficiaries.
– Tranche B (2018–2020): ₦5.6 billion for 1,198 beneficiaries, scheduled for disbursement between May and July 2025.
– Tranche C (2021–2024): ₦8.2 billion allocated for 1,371 beneficiaries, to be disbursed between August and November 2025.
In addition to these gratuity payments, the Governor revealed that ₦1.27 billion has been earmarked and is currently being disbursed to cover housing and furniture allowances for current elected and appointed political office holders in the local government areas.
“These payments go beyond financial transactions. They represent our values — that service must be respected, commitments must be honored, and leadership must be accountable,” Governor Yusuf stated, reinforcing the symbolic and practical importance of the gesture.
The governor also used the occasion to commend the efforts of various stakeholders who contributed to the success of the exercise. “I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the verification teams, finance officers, oversight committees, and administrative coordinators for their meticulous and tireless work,” he said.
He concluded his address with a call for continued unity, cooperation, and shared commitment to development. “Let us work together to build a more prosperous and inclusive Kano State. With pride in our collective effort and confidence in our shared future, I hereby launch the first phase of these payments,” Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf declared.
