The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission has launched a discreet investigation into an alleged scam surrounding the recently inaugurated street hawkers empowerment scheme by the state government.
The 465 street hawkers empowerment scheme, unveiled last Wednesday 5th June,2024 aimed to boost local entrepreneurship by providing each beneficiary with N50,000.
However, the initiative has come under scrutiny following allegations that some individuals attempted to exploit the programme for personal gains.
Viral videos circulating last week showed groups of youths who were reportedly not among the originally selected beneficiaries.
The individuals were allegedly brought to the venue by a third party, impersonating those on the official list, and collected the N50,000 grants.
According to young men in the video, after receiving the money, the impersonators were coerced into handing over N45,000 each to the person who orchestrated their participation, leaving them with only N5,000.
Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, on Sunday confirmed that the commission had commenced an investigation into the allegations.
“We have actually begun an investigation into this empowerment scheme and others to ensure that the culprits are brought to book.
“I can assure you that no matter who is involved, they will face justice as no stone will be left unturned,” Rimingado stated.
The commission is scrutinising the scheme under Sections 21, 22, and 23 of the law establishing the commission, which deals with fraudulent activities and misappropriation of funds.
Rimingado emphasised that the commission’s efforts are not aimed at targeting specific individuals or groups, but are part of broader efforts to investigate activities from both the past and current administrations.
The chairman also called on the public to assist the commission with information that could enhance its investigations.
He further assured informants of their confidentiality and encouraged them to continue supporting the commission’s anti-corruption efforts.